Critical theory is applied to determine why larger numbers of children are now identified as having special needs; acquiring such labels is found to be the result of complex social, economic, and political considerations. Explanations for educational problems are offered at three levels: personal/interpersonal, environmental/institutional, and…

Compares intelligence and achievement test results from learning disabled (LD) and normal Mexican American high school students with those of Anglo LD and normal students. No differences in performance IQ between Mexican and Anglo LDs. Suggests language proficiency or sociocultural factors, not learning disabilities, cause differences. (Author/TES)

Discussion of the educational needs of students who are both gifted and learning disabled focuses on terminology, definitions, characteristics, identification, and instructional programming. A study showing the effectiveness of systematic direct instruction in small groups for this population is summarized. (DB)

This paper describes the vocational programs and transition planning services needed and received by 553 students with and without disabilities during their last year of high school in Oregon and Nevada. Results are discussed in terms of regular and specialized vocational instruction, school-sponsored work experience, vocational skills…

Describes a study of the perceptions of developmental educators and counselors regarding current level of knowledge and procedures for working with students with learning disabilities in community colleges. Reports differences in training, with 31% of the educators and only 6% of the counselors having taken special education courses. Discusses…

Three experiments compared the effects of interspersal drill and practice using 30% new items/70% review items with 100% new items, with a total of 17 students (ages 9 to 17) having behavior disorders, emotional handicaps, learning disabilities, or mild mental retardation. The ratios were compared for instruction in spelling, multiplication facts,…

This article reviews the developmental literature in spoken persuasion and discusses implications for assessment and intervention with students with language-learning disorders, in terms of persuading others, analyzing persuasive appeals, and responding to persuasive appeals. (JDD)

This study examined the homework practices of 48 students (ages 11-15) with learning disabilities and 48 nondisabled students. Although there were some similarities in homework practices of both groups, the students with learning disabilities engaged to a significantly greater extent in practices that interfered with homework completion.…

This article discusses aspects of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) which may be of particular interest to individuals with learning disabilities preparing for employment. Case studies are presented to illustrate applications of the ADA to typical workplace situations, and suggestions are given with regard to employment preparation…

Special education teachers (n=407) were surveyed regarding coverage of 45 controversial or sensitive topics in their instruction of students with learning disabilities, mental retardation, or behavior disorders. Topical issues were addressed only to a very limited extent, but were addressed more with students having behavioral disorders and at the…

This article describes the inclusion model implemented at two elementary schools in Minnesota and the educational experiences of a second grader and a sixth grader. One school's locally developed model focused on an alternative phonetic reading program for students at risk or with disabilities; the other school focused on team teaching. (DB)

This response to five case studies of inclusive practices for elementary students with learning disabilities (LD) finds that the consistent result was to diminish and subordinate the role of the special education teacher, reduce the potential effectiveness of special education as a specialized instructional effort, and remove the academic press…

This response to five case studies of inclusive practices for elementary students with learning disabilities identifies problems inherent in inclusive education (e.g., coteaching and logistics) and suggests that fundamental school reform offers an alternative that meets recognized best-practice standards and requires the trained skills of learning…

Pennsylvania's instructional support initiatives for secondary students with special needs include collaboration, curriculum-based assessment, learning strategies, and instructional adaptations. A learning strategies model for low achievers is described, followed by one school's experience using instructional supports in regular English classes…

Six instructional design principles are recommended to enable students with learning disabilities to comprehend and compose expository materials. The instructional principles are illustrated using the compare/contrast text structure. Charts provide examples and clarification of the strategies. (SW)