Learning disabilities is a dynamic and expanding field. Individuals with learning disabilities exist across all ages, socioeconomic levels, and ethnic groups; their problems range from mild to severe. Professionals as well as parents continue to seek greater knowledge about the nature of learning disabilities and proven methods for enhancing academic, social, and vocational success for people with learning disabilities.
This book offers comprehensive coverage of the field. Many theories and practices have developed quickly. Some have been challenged and found to be lacking. Thus, many practices have been refined, whereas others have either waned or grown. In this text, we have tried to present a balanced picture of the varying theories and practices (educational, medical, and psychological), and we hope this allows you to develop your own perspective.
The book has been revised to include recent developments. This sixth edition reflects the latest trends in the field of learning disabilities, explores current issues, and highlights identification, including response to treatment. The 1997 reauthorization of IDEA has been included. However, as this edition goes to press, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is undergoing reauthorization: We have addressed this issue throughout the text and will provide updates on the reauthorization on the Companion Website. The book is written from a perspective of what research indicates are the best practices in the field of learning disabilities in regards to identification, assessment, and intervention. Noteworthy changes in this edition include expanded coverage of cultural diversity, consensus documents in readinginstruction, effective practices to prevent and remediate reading difficulties, and effective assessment and teaching practices in the academic areas based on recent meta-analyses of the best instructional practices. In addition, this edition has been streamlined to provide concise but complete information. Many of the additional resources found in previous editions, including reviews of specific curricula and materials, are provided on a new Companion Website. Each chapter has been refined extensively to provide comprehensive yet timely coverage of pertinent information. In addition to covering topics that facilitate an understanding of learning disabilities, we have included a strong focus on how to teach and manage students with learning disabilities.
Why is the sixth edition of Students with Learning Disabilities a worthwhile book for your learning disabilities introductory class? It is as current as possible, and you will find the research to be well integrated. While an effort has been made to provide a definitive point of view, we also have tried to treat fairly the many approaches to learning disabilities. We have attempted to describe how schools really function in this country in an effort to assist you in handling situations in your current or future classrooms.
In the field of learning disabilities, there are no easy answers. It is fraught with controversy, ambivalence, and vagueness, and it lacks consensus about many basic issues. We have made every effort to present the best of what we know. It is our hope that this book stimulates you to discover even more about the nature and needs of individuals with learning disabilities.
