This paper examines studies of the Minnesota Institute which were interpreted as demonstrating that students with learning disabilities are not distinguishable from other low-achieving students. Results of the reexamination indicate that learning disabilities and low achievement can be clearly differentiated, even in studies indicating that little…

Summarizes the findings of quantitative research syntheses to show the variability and unpredictability of special education interventions. Concludes that special education cannot operate on the basis of lawlike relationships but rather must mediate its interventions through what is known about effective schooling that emphasizes the context of…