The paper develops the phonological-core variable difference model to conceptualize differences between dyslexic and other poor readers. The model highlights the importance of viewing the concept of dyslexia as the outcome of the application of an arbitrary criterion in a continuous distribution. (Author/DB)

Assessment batteries of 200 elementary children with learning disabilities were analyzed to identify practices associated with the use of individual intelligence and achievement tests. Among conclusions: Many students identified as SLD have below-average intelligence, do not exhibit discrepancies on the Wechsler scale, and do not have severe…

This paper examines how sustainable development can be defined and some of the contradictions involved with the concept. The policy implications of sustainable development are examined, with a particular emphasis on industry and employment. (LZ/Author)

Devising better definitions and measures of school choice practices and policies would improve understanding of choice and help evaluate its prevalence and effects. This article proposes system/district-level indicators of school choice that could operationalize the concept and produce valuable interdistrict comparative information on choice…

This response to a critique (EC 610 427) of the authors' article on curriculum-based assessment notes the use of an operational definition of "curriculum" in their original article and restates their concern that too many teachers believe that assessment is wedded to the specific materials of instruction. (DB)

Investigates whether textbooks are appropriate for a college library collection. Discussion includes an overview of collection development policies; the definition of a textbook; textbook references; and selection criteria for evaluating a textbook=FEs desirability as a library resource. (28 references) (SLW)

Critically reviews mentoring for new British principals, focusing on program characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. Mentoring facilitates peer support, helps newcomers make necessary role identity changes, and encourages reflective practice. There are problems with pairing practitioners and mentors, passing on outmoded advice, and…

This article addresses the proposal of Shaw and others (1995) to replace the current federal definition of learning disabilities with an operationalized version proposed by the National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities in the reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Comparison of Shaw's recommendations with…

Deconstructs certain naturalizing features of the concept "Asian American" in contemporary discourse, and argues the term is now obsolete and detrimental for political purposes. The author suggests an active practice of coming to terms with ever-changing social conditions, an exercise that may change what Asian American means, while…

This paper explores the tendency to regard the terms "emotional abuse" and "psychological abuse" as interchangeable. Existing commonly used definitions are reviewed, and new definitions are provided. Differences between mental and emotional consequences of child abuse are delineated and the implications of these differences for terminology usage…

These suggestions for teachers of gifted students with hearing impairments address definitional dilemmas affecting this population and special screening and evaluation problems. Guidance is given concerning choosing a "gifted" definition, selecting measures for identifying giftedness, and determining the reference group. Teachers are urged to look…

A pentagonal implicit theory of giftedness and five criteria for designating a person as gifted are considered. Research with 24 college students and 39 parents of gifted children assessed whether this theory captures people's intuitions about giftedness and whether they use these criteria to evaluate others. Implications for educational practice…

Responses from 251 of 831 public sector administrators yielded no single idea or definition of work force diversity; 43.5% believed it was the same as equal employment opportunity/affirmative action, 40.5% thought it was different. Of individual characteristics of diversity, 94.9% selected race, 85.1% gender. Existing diversity programs were…

This introduction to several articles on attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) notes the confusion in terminology and the emphasis in the articles on use of a collaborative treatment approach, recommendations for practitioners, and service delivery models. (DB)

Similarities and differences between least restrictive environment (LRE) and collaboration are considered. It is suggested that both LRE and collaboration are essential to achieving appropriate education for students with disabilities, but the potential of LRE and collaboration has not yet been fully realized. (SW)