This article presents a reinterpretation of Gerald Coles's 1987 book "The Learning Mystique," viewing it as making a positive contribution to the learning disabilities field in both practical and theoretical ways, by offering the possibility of different treatment options and expanding the intellectual base for researchers. Potential research…

This article asserts that the learning disabilities field must (1) address causality in differentiating learning disabilities from other learning problems, (2) expand prevailing approaches to individualizing instruction so that intrinsic motivation is accounted for in a systematic, comprehensive manner, and (3) move beyond piecemeal programs to…

In response to Coles (EC 220 146), the article examines evidence of the roles of intrinsic biological characteristics and the environment in learning disability and suggests that learning disability is a biological susceptibility manifested in an environment promoting its expression. (DB)

In agreement with Coles (EC 220 146), the article presents: a sketch of how the learning disability field was born, the sociological reasons why the field inadvertently moved beyond its original intentions, and how Coles aims for advances in the theory and practice of diagnosing learning problems. (DB)

Fundamental assumptions concerning the cause of learning disabilities are described and criticized. At a broader level, research and theory in three different paradigms are discussed: (1) neuropsychological; (2) information processing; and (3) applied behavior analysis. Four recommendations for future progress in the conceptualization and…

Key concepts of the book include the lack of evidence supporting the neurological explanation for "learning disabilities," basic flaws in research based on this theory, and an alternative "interactivity" theory which posits that systemic economic, social, and cultural conditions are the principal influences contributing to learning failure. (DB)

The paper identifies areas of agreement among leaders in learning disabilities (LD) including heterogeneity of the LD population; explores the classification problem as it relates to etiology and/or treatment, and proposes a five-step plan to influence public policy concerned with differentiation and treatment of different types of learning…

In response to Coles (EC 220 146), the article examines additional research concerning language-based theories of reading disability and finds problems with Cole's proposed research agenda focusing on systemic economic, social, and cultural conditions in the etiology of learning disabilities. (DB)

The article traces etiological factors in the development of social interactional problems of learning disabled children and youth. Treatment issues centering on family interaction patterns are described, and an integrated treatment approach involving family intervention is recommended. (JW)

This article reviews Bakker's developmental neuropsychological model (the Balance Model) of reading development (EC 602 750), notes the need for validating research before employing these procedures in clinical practice, and raises some conceptual problems such as evidence that learning disability subtypes evolve over time. (Author/DB)