Using two modes of production, writing and dictation, the study compared the story production, coherence, and fluency of learning-disabled (LD) children (N=47) with that of normal-achieving and low-achieving subjects across three grade levels. Among results were that mode of production had no effect upon story production or fluency for any…

In response to two papers decrying reductionism and advocating holistic constructivism in models of learning disabilities, the article claims that the behavioral paradigm, unlike the holistic paradigm, has provided a validated and documented instructional methodology. (DB)

In response to a previous article, the paper suggests it is unrealistic to expect one theory or even multiple theories within one paradigm to explain learning disabilities. The emphasis on reaching a consensus regarding theory or paradigm is seen as unproductive. (DB)

Examined records of 170 learning-disabled students to determine stability of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) test scores. WISC-R was readministered three years later to 150 subjects. Stability coefficients were .72, .70, and .74 for Verbal, Performance, and Full Scale Intelligence Quotient scores. Results suggest WISC-R…

Based on a three-stage model of memory coding, comparisons were made between reading ability groups on their serial recall of pictorial information. Article describes three different experiments. (RB)

Examined the concurrent validity of the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Revised (PPVT-R) and the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Childen (K-ABC) with 47 students referred for learning difficulties. Data analysis indicated that the K-ABC Achievement global scale was the only significant predictor of the PPVT-R. Implications for practitioners are…

Examination of the expository writing of 36 learning-disabled (LD), 36 nondisabled (matched in intelligence quotient and reading ability), and 36 normally-achieving nondisabled elementary school students indicated both grade- and group-related differences, with LD students producing more errors than low achieving nondisabled students, who produced…

State guidelines for 1981/82 and 1985/86 were compared to identify trends in definitions and methods used to diagnose learning disabilities (LD). The later guidelines tended to delineate specific achievement discrepancy criteria. However, major components of LD definitions were not altered and IQ cutoffs were not implemented. (Author/DB)

A new computer assisted instructional program designed to increase decoding fluency in reading was evaluated for use with 20 learning disabled elementary grade children. After 10 weeks of daily 15-minute practice sessions, subjects showed substantial improvement on words practiced, words never practiced, and reading speed and accuracy. (Author/DB)

The study examined predictors of educational placement using the Personality Inventory for Children with 55 children previously identified as either learning disabled or nonhandicapped. Leading student characteristics predicting placement were (1) achievement; (2) adjustment; and (3) social incompetence, depression, defensiveness. (Author/DB)

Three studies evaluated the effectiveness of using verbatim text recordings to increase learning disabled high school students' reading comprehension and learning ability. Use of the recordings did produce performance gains, especially when used in conjunction with completion of a related worksheet. (DB)

When faculty at a small public university were asked if they would make 23 accommodations (instructional, assignment, and examination modifications) for learning disabled students, most were willing to make such adjustments. Only those adjustments which faculty felt differed significantly in degree from standards held for all students were…

Empirical, multivariate classification techniques were used to form subtypes of learning disabled readers (N=59) based on their performance on information processing tasks. A six-cluster solution with good internal validity was achieved with several subtype patterns tending to support hypotheses linking information processing deficits with reading…

The study investigated types of errors made by learning disabled children by analyzing written responses to multiplication and division problems. Error classifications are discussed, and possible causes are suggested. The importance of thorough investigation of errors by teachers is stressed. (Author/DB)

Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised short-form procedures were used with 69 adolescents with slow school progress. The Satz-Mogel model was most effective in predicting the Full-Scale IQ. The Verbal IQ, Performance IQ, and selected five or six subtest combinations were also helpful predictors. Short-form procedures are inadequate for…