This article argues that the regression-based discrepancy method used in the diagnosis of learning disabilities is invalid because it is inconsistent with the underlying underachievement concept of which it is intended to be the operationalization. It is mathematically demonstrated that the regression-based discrepancy method largely reflects…

This article evaluates conclusions in Van den Broeck's article (2002) that argue the regression-based discrepancy method (RDM) used in learning disabilities diagnosis is invalid because it is inconsistent with the underlying underachievement concept of which it is intended to be the operationalization. It concludes acceptable models support the…

This article responds to a critique by Willson and Reynolds (2002) that argued for the use of the regression-based discrepancy method (RDM) for identifying learning disabilities. It argues the statistical and theoretical counterarguments are based on a misreading of the statistical models presented. (Contains 8 references.) (Author/CR)

This article argues for the adoption of a 2-step procedure in diagnosing dyslexia: first, identify students with word list reading standard scores below 90, and then identify students with a reading score at least 10 points lower than expected from the full scale intelligence quotient. (JDD)

The article provides an overview of the McDermott Multidimensional Assessment of Children (M-MAC), a microcomputer system for integration and analysis of information from over 30 psychological and educational sources. M-MAC's classification functiions are introduced and reviewed. Special features for diagnostic practice, professional training, and…

The author asserts that, because being successful in school does not necessarily lead to success in life, school should not be the primary focus for and evaluation of the existence of a handicap. (CL)

Informal assessment can make a valuable contribution to the assessment process in special education. Informal procedures are characterized by their ability to be tailored to the needs of specific assessment situations and are especially useful in student evaluation for this reason. (Author)

The article provides, in outline form, a program evaluation plan for special education program developers and evaluators. The plan has a three part conceptual framework involving the nature and needs of students, the goals and objectives of the program, and the match between the two. (DB)

A pediatric allergist reviews his clinical observations on the relationship between delayed food allergy onset and a variety of systemic and nervous system symptoms. (CL)

A basic outline and set of principles are presented for clinicians in discussing diagnostic findings with parents of handicapped children. (CL)

Comparison of rapid automatized naming in 136 children and youth with primary language disorders and 2,450 typical children and youth found naming time (but not accuracy) differed significantly between groups, especially in the color-shape naming task. Findings indicate that the requirements for two-dimensional, continuous naming resulted in…

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…

This study examined the development of reading and phonological processing abilities of 209 first graders assessed at the beginning and end of the school year. The discriminant analysis, based on reading and intelligence data, correctly identified later group membership (students with and without reading disabilities and "garden variety" poor…

This study analyzed the Stanford Achievement Test scores of Hawaiian students with disabilities and made comparisons to the larger normative population. After local subgroup norms were developed to supplement national norms, results indicated students with disabilities made greater gains in achievement from third to sixth grade than typical…

A procedure, employing a tachistoscope, is presented to enable teachers to identify the nature of arithmetic difficulties. (Author/SBH)