This article provides a critique of holism within the learning disabilities field, based on its incipient subjectivism. It examines the issue of objective, scientific study in relation to the works of Richard Iano, Mary Poplin, and Lous Heshusius and recommends consideration of the perspective of critical realism, based on the writing of Roy…

Use of the Foxfire approach to instruction is described as a means of developing learning communities that serve all children. Examples from several elementary classrooms illustrate instructional processes that integrate content with skill development for diverse students, including children with learning disabilities. Core principles of the…

This response to an article by Bruce Taylor on inclusion of students with disabilities in regular classes argues that it is not possible to meet the needs of all children in the general education classroom and points out that inclusion is generally favored by advocacy groups for low-incidence disabilities and policymakers wanting to cut costs. (DB)

The article responds to three papers (by S. Forness, K. Reid, and W. Kimball and T. Heron) which reacted to two papers by M. Poplin (1988) concerning the reductionist fallacy in learning disabilities and holistic/constructivist principles of the teaching-learning process, with implications for the field of learning disabilities. (DB)

In response to two papers decrying reductionism and advocating holistic constructivism in models of learning disabilities, the article applauds trends toward a shifting paradigm in the field but warns against advocating any single approach as the only valid path to effective learning. (DB)

In response to two papers decrying reductionism and advocating holistic constructivism in models of learning disabilities, the article claims that the behavioral paradigm, unlike the holistic paradigm, has provided a validated and documented instructional methodology. (DB)

The author cites S. Sarason's book "Psychology Misdirected" and applies Sarason's views to the field of learning disabilities. A shift toward understanding individual behavior in terms of the larger society is suggested. (SB)

This article analyzes how the dominant image of reality in the field of learning disabilities is derived from the diagnostic model. The article proposes an alternative, normative conception of education that emphasizes the importance of caring, social relatedness, and community participation. (Author/DB)

This introductory article to a series focusing on voices other than those usually heard in professional discussions of learning disabilities emphasizes the importance of examining current assumptions--theoretical, practical, and legal--and paying attention to the actual experiences of students. (DB)

With the advent of readily available computer technology, we have to develop a philosophy which considers the role of computers in education. Computers can be used for much more than role learning, and a philosophy must include the far reaching contexts of computers in school and life. (CL)

Current advocacy efforts in learning disabilities (LD) are critiqued and alternatives to traditional special education such as implementing the effective schools research are reviewed. Five objectives of an advocacy blueprint for a pluralist school include increasing public awareness of the LD experience and making integration the centerpiece of…

This article uses discourse theory in arguing that learning disabilities, by explaining several contradictions and anomalies of schooling, function to sustain dominant assumptions of schooling and society and to maintain inequitable distribution of social goods. Educators are urged to actively confront the inequities of schooling and society.…