Results obtained from the center's six research projects are reviewed, including research on psychometric assessment of twins with reading disabilities, reading and language processes, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and executive functions, linkage analysis and physical mapping, computer-based remediation of reading disabilities, and…

Explores grade retention rates among children with undiagnosed learning disabilities (LD). Data collected on 344 students referred for special-education evaluation revealed that, of the 201 who possessed an LD, 71.6% had been retained at least once. Minority and urban LD students were more apt to be retained before being referred for evaluation.…

Focuses on a student-centered college planning approach for students with learning disabilities and other special needs. This collaborative approach portrays the student as the quarterback and the parents and school professional staff as supporting linebackers. Gives detailed plans for self-assessment, academic assessment, and college assessment.…

Believes that characteristics, such as individual, cultural, or situational affect motivational variables of student functionality. Presents results of the study in which three groups of high school students participated: (1) learning disabled students (n=61); (2) high achievers (n=60); and (3) average students (n=105). Includes references. (CMK)

Points out the following problems with standardized testing and reforms at the middle school level: (1) misalignment of test-based reforms and standards-based reforms; (2) geographic disadvantages; and (3) disadvantages for learning disabled. Presents example of two students' standardized test scores as illustrations of the non-alignment problem.…

This article discusses forces driving mathematics reform: shifting theoretical paradigms, disappointing levels of mathematics performance of students in the United States, and the impact of rapidly changing technologies. Concerns about this reform from the special education community are discussed, and synthesized special education research…

A study involving 185 high school students with learning disabilities explored their views of high school. While participants enjoyed the opportunity to socialize with peers, they found specific classes boring or too difficult. Participants were much more likely to report advantages to staying in school than disadvantages. Recommendations are…

Case studies of six young women with learning disabilities revealed three career development phases: unsettled, exploratory, and focused. Phases varied along two dimensions stability of employment and clarity of career goals. Key elements influencing career development included motivation and determination, family support, career exploration…

This meta-analysis looked at outcomes of school-based interventions aimed at enhancing the self-concept of students with learning disabilities, specifically effect sizes in relation to students' self-concepts prior to the intervention. Results indicated that only students with documented low self-concept benefited significantly from intervention.…

A study investigated the mathematical problem-solving abilities of 18 fourth-graders with mathematics disabilities (MD) with and without comorbid reading disabilities (RD). Results demonstrated large deficits for both groups. However, the differences between students with and without RD were mediated by the level of problem solving and by…

Data from 143 children with reading disabilities (RD), 100 with arithmetic disabilities (AD), and 121 controls (ages 6-16) found the RD and AD groups had significantly lower scores on all verbal IQ subtests. Many also showed significant differences between verbal and performance IQ scores, but so did many controls. (Contains references.)…

A self-referred and agency-referred sample of 80 adults from London, Ontario, considered to have learning disabilities, completed the Intake Questionnaire. Results indicated a profile that is predominantly male, aged 21-40, with a history of early academic difficulties, communication and organization skill deficits, and higher unemployment rates…

The objectives and content areas of knowledge included in competency testing programs for beginning teachers in the areas of learning disabilities were analyzed. Similarity was found in state requirements. Tables detailing objectives addressed by state tests offer guidance to teacher training programs. (Author/DB)

An instructional package, LD.Trainer, was developed from a computer-based expert system (CLASS.LD2) combined with strategies of effective concept instruction. Evaluation with 97 preservice and in-service educators found users of LD.Trainer scored significantly higher on a posttest of ability to accurately identify learning-disabled students. (DB)

A survey of 51 state departments of education focused on learning disabilities definitions, identification criteria, and operationalization procedures. Results showed the continued impact of the 1977 federal definition and criteria. Findings are compared with those from a 1985 survey and discussed in terms of trends, prereferral interventions,…