The author traces efforts to define and redefine learning disabilities (LD). The inclusion of children in LD classes who do not meet requirements of the definition is seen as a common yet dangerous practice. (CL)

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)

The importance and relevance of longitudinal research in learning disabilities is addressed, including its value in verification of appropriate hypotheses concerning particular developmental patterns and debunking of misconceptions. Examples from various longitudinal studies are given. (DB)

Paraprofessional training in administration and scoring of educational and psychological tests for learning disability diagnosis is examined, and it is concluded that projected disadvantages outweigh advantages, indicating caution in adopting the practice. (Author/CL)

The author examines current issues in the field of learning disabilities and notes the absence of national leadership, difficulties with the definition issue, ineffective and inconsequential research, thoughtless approaches to mainstreaming, and ill-advised noncategorical teacher education. (CL)

The effects of "primal terror", the emotional experience of one's inability to naturally maintain balance in opposition to gravity and to integrate vestibular input, are discussed for children with learning and perceptual problems. (CL)

This paper urges a deeper consideration of the role of psychometrically defined intelligence in the operationalization of aptitude/achievement discrepancies inherent in most definitions of learning disability. It proposes a new disability, dysrationalia, the inability to think and behave rationally despite adequate intelligence. (DB)

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 trend to include mildly mentally retarded, emotionally disturbed (behavior disordered), and learning disabled children in the same generic category and in the same school programs is increasing. The author believes that the noncategorical trend in special education can endanger the appropriate education of many children. (Author)

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)

In agreement with Coles (EC 220 146), the article comments on the poor quality of research in the learning disability field, and Coles'"interactivity" theory as an alternative to the neurological-deficit theory which is applied to the problem of classification, intervention, and a societal approach. (DB)

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)

In response to a previous article, the paper characterizes learning disabilities as the consequence of a transaction between students exhibiting certain individual differences and the social system of the schools. Basic and applied research can be related in good instructional research which includes the context of disability. (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)