School Psychologists' Perceptions on an Effective Way to Evaluate Students with Specific Learning Disabilities

School Psychologists' Perceptions on an Effective Way to Evaluate Students with Specific Learning Disabilities PDF Author: Chelton L. Hunter
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Learning disabilities
Languages : en
Pages : 154

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Book Description
The purpose of this research study was to examine school psychologists' perceptions on an effective way to evaluate school aged children for specific learning disabilities by comparing the IQ-Achievement discrepancy model and the Response to Intervention model. Data were collected from twenty practicing school psychologists from four different school districts in Pennsylvania through the use of a school psychologist survey and interview instrument, which consisted of both fixed-choice and open-ended questions. The findings revealed that school psychologists perceived that there appears to be a clear trend away from the IQ-Achievement discrepancy approach toward a Response to Intervention approach to identify students with specific learning disabilities. Specifically, as school psychologists' levels of exposure to the Response to Intervention model increased, their acceptability ratings for this model increased and their acceptability ratings for the IQ-Achievement discrepancy model decreased. Furthermore, the need for additional professional development opportunities to assist with the implementation of research-based educational practices in the classroom was recommended. This appears to be a critical component needed to maintain the integrity of a Response to Intervention approach, particularly in the first tier of intervention.

School Psychologists' Perceptions on an Effective Way to Evaluate Students with Specific Learning Disabilities

School Psychologists' Perceptions on an Effective Way to Evaluate Students with Specific Learning Disabilities PDF Author: Chelton L. Hunter
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Learning disabilities
Languages : en
Pages : 154

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Book Description
The purpose of this research study was to examine school psychologists' perceptions on an effective way to evaluate school aged children for specific learning disabilities by comparing the IQ-Achievement discrepancy model and the Response to Intervention model. Data were collected from twenty practicing school psychologists from four different school districts in Pennsylvania through the use of a school psychologist survey and interview instrument, which consisted of both fixed-choice and open-ended questions. The findings revealed that school psychologists perceived that there appears to be a clear trend away from the IQ-Achievement discrepancy approach toward a Response to Intervention approach to identify students with specific learning disabilities. Specifically, as school psychologists' levels of exposure to the Response to Intervention model increased, their acceptability ratings for this model increased and their acceptability ratings for the IQ-Achievement discrepancy model decreased. Furthermore, the need for additional professional development opportunities to assist with the implementation of research-based educational practices in the classroom was recommended. This appears to be a critical component needed to maintain the integrity of a Response to Intervention approach, particularly in the first tier of intervention.

RTI Approach to Evaluating Learning Disabilities

RTI Approach to Evaluating Learning Disabilities PDF Author: Joseph F. Kovaleski
Publisher: Guilford Publications
ISBN: 1462550444
Category : Education
Languages : en
Pages : 290

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Book Description
From leading authorities, this indispensable work is now in a revised and expanded second edition, presenting state-of-the-art tools and procedures for practitioners. The book shows how to use response to intervention (RTI) to evaluate K–12 students for specific learning disabilities (SLD). The second edition gives increased attention to optimizing the instructional environment in the context of a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS). Procedures are described for screening at-risk students; using RTI to intensify instruction in reading, writing, and math; identifying SLD; determining eligibility for special education; and planning individualized education programs. Case examples and pointers for practice are woven throughout. In a convenient large-size format, the book includes reproducible tools that can be downloaded and printed for repeated use. New to This Edition *Incorporates contemporary perspectives on SLD, upgraded procedures for implementing an MTSS, new approaches to measuring RTI, and enhancements in using classroom observations. *Chapter on best practices in academic screening, including important dos and don'ts. *Separate chapters on using RTI for reading, written expression, and mathematics. *Chapter on RTI and special education law, focusing on what practitioners need to know. This book is in The Guilford Practical Intervention in the Schools Series, edited by Sandra M. Chafouleas.

Investigating School Psychologists' Role in Informing Students about Their Learning Disabilities

Investigating School Psychologists' Role in Informing Students about Their Learning Disabilities PDF Author:
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Autonomy (Psychology)
Languages : en
Pages : 58

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Book Description
Despite the lack of research on developmentally appropriate practices for school psychologists to use when informing students with specific learning disabilities, a literature review revealed possible barriers to school psychologists directly informing these students, such as IDEA regulations, parental objection, developmental concerns, and limited training. To better understand the current practices of school psychologists when informing younger students of their learning disability, training needs, and perceived barriers, the researcher surveyed 166 Virginia school psychologists. Results from the online survey indicated that if a student is informed, their special education teacher or parents are more likely to than the school psychologist. However, when in the role, school psychologists primarily rely on training from their job experience to provide developmentally appropriate informing services. Ultimately, a variety of recommendations for and barriers to informing younger students of their learning disability and helping them develop self-advocacy skills earlier in their academic careers were identified.

Neuropsychological Perspectives on Learning Disabilities in the Era of RTI

Neuropsychological Perspectives on Learning Disabilities in the Era of RTI PDF Author: Elaine Fletcher-Janzen
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 0470893451
Category : Psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 447

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Book Description
An insightful look at the role of neuroscience and neuropsychology as it relates to Response to Intervention (RTI) in learning disability diagnosis, treatment, and policy reform Neuropsychological Perspectives on Learning Disabilities in the Era of RTI is a revolutionary new volume presenting the latest research—in question-and-answer format—from leading scholars about the contributions of neuroscience and neuropsychology as it relates to Response to Intervention (RTI) in learning disability identification, diagnosis, and recommended interventions. This collective work includes contributions from more than thirty neuroscientists, neuropsychologists, clinical psychologists, and school psychologists with training in brain-behavior relationships, who explore the answers to questions including: How do you reconcile RTI as a means of diagnosis of learning disability with knowledge from the clinical neurosciences?? What do you think neuroscience has to offer laws and policies associated with learning disability determination? What do you think neuroscience has to offer the assessment and identification of learning disabilities? What role does neurocognitive science play in designing interventions in the context of RTI? What role does neuropsychology have to play in the diagnosis of learning disability? Featuring contributions from leaders in the field of neuropsychology and school psychology, and with a Foreword from Sally Shaywitz, Neuropsychological Perspectives on Learning Disabilities in the Era of RTI illuminates the contributions of neuro-science and neuropsychology to learning disability identification and current educational reform.

Learning Disabilities

Learning Disabilities PDF Author: Jeffrey P. Bakken
Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing
ISBN: 1781904251
Category : Education
Languages : en
Pages : 220

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Book Description
Written by leaders in the field of learning disabilities, this volume addresses various perspectives and issues related to learning disabilities. It includes chapters: Legal Issues and Learning Disabilities; Themes and Dimensions of Learning Disabilities; and, Identification and Assessment of Students with LD.

School Psychologists' Assessment Practices with English Learners: Recommendations to Increase Accurate Identification

School Psychologists' Assessment Practices with English Learners: Recommendations to Increase Accurate Identification PDF Author: Lisa Ann Miller
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 138

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Book Description
This action research project engaged school psychologists to address a problem within a specific school district: to accurately identify English Learner (EL) students with a Specific Learning Disability (SLD). School psychologists are responsible for conducting comprehensive psycho-educational evaluations with students to determine if they have a disability. SLD, the most common eligibility category for which they assess, is broadly defined as a discrepancy between a child's cognitive potential and achievement. Unlike other categories of eligibility that are medically determined--such as deafness, blindness, or traumatic brain injury--SLD is somewhat subjective and abstract. When a student is acquiring a second language, SLD determination becomes more abstract than with English-only students. A reason for the increased complexity is the fact that some second language acquisition traits overlap with SLD traits (Harris, Sullivan, Oades-Sese, & Sotelo-Dynega, 2015; Sullivan, 2011). For example, an EL student might struggle with reading comprehension, paying attention, and following directions. Those traits are also true for a student with SLD. Consequently, despite good intentions, it is possible that a student can be misclassified with or without a SLD if he/she is are also an EL. My study aimed to identify strategies school psychologists could use in their assessment practices with EL students to reduce the potential of misclassification. Through participatory action research, participants named three recommendations: obtain information about the student's oral language profile through direct observations of the student during non-structured time and consultation with speech therapists, adjust test administration protocol to allow the student maximum opportunity to understand the directions rather than rigid adherence to standardized administration, and organize a panel of colleagues who are proficient in second language acquisition to provide case consultation with school psychologists on their evaluations with EL students. Results from my study also revealed how participatory action research can be an effective approach to address disproportionate special education data in a school district. I believe the effectiveness of this approach is rooted in the organic and exploratory nature of action research design. The school psychologists self-identified existing practices that might be causes for misclassification of Hispanic students made eligible with an SLD. Then, the participants collaborated on actions to ameliorate the problem. Ultimately, the participants addressed the problem without the need for top-down mandates.

Delivering Psycho-educational Evaluation Results to Parents

Delivering Psycho-educational Evaluation Results to Parents PDF Author: Francis J. DeMatteo
Publisher: Routledge
ISBN: 0429665040
Category : Education
Languages : en
Pages : 205

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Book Description
Delivering Psycho-educational Evaluation Results to Parents presents a concrete and adaptable Feedback Model that efficiently communicates complex evaluation results to parents in an easily understandable manner. The book discusses a model rooted in basic learning principles, effective communication practices, and practitioner empathy towards the parent experience of the home-school relationship, hinging upon practitioners and parents jointly creating a permanent product of the evaluation results during the feedback process. It provides early career school psychologists with a parent-friendly Feedback Model that can be adapted to their school-based setting. The text includes specific verbiage to explaining constructs in the cognitive, achievement, visual-motor, and social-emotional domains, along with considerations in application to working with diverse populations. The text is intended for school psychologists and professionals who complete psycho-educational evaluations for special education eligibility. More specifically, the text is envisioned to support the graduate training of school psychologists and the professional development of early career professionals in the field.

Essentials of Specific Learning Disability Identification

Essentials of Specific Learning Disability Identification PDF Author: Vincent C. Alfonso
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1119313856
Category : Psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 644

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Book Description
Practical, up-to-date guidance on identifying Specific Learning Disability Essentials of Specific Learning Disability Identification provides accessible, authoritative guidance on specific learning disability (SLD), with the most up-to-date information on assessment, identification, interventions, and more. Contributions by leading experts examine multiple theoretical orientations and various identification approaches for dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and other common SLDs. Emphasizing real-world utility, this book provides important information for professionals who work with children and youth at risk; many of the SLD identification practices can be put to work immediately, and the expert coverage offers many strategies and interventions for student support in the classroom. This new second edition has been updated to align with the most current understanding of SLD manifestations, diagnostic assessment, and evidence-based interventions, and includes new material covering nonverbal learning disability, speech-language impairment, general learning difficulties, and differentially diagnosing SLD from other conditions. Early SLD identification and the right kind of help can raise the trajectory of a child's life. This book provides in-depth information to facilitate accurate identification and appropriate intervention to help you help the children in your care. Understand how SLD manifests in academic performance Learn theory- and research-based approaches to SLD identification Examine the latest information about new aspects of SLD determination Utilize appropriate and effective intervention strategies for student support If a child's learning disability is caught early, and the correct type of support is provided, that child gets the chance to develop the skills that lead to achievement in school and beyond. As a high-incidence disorder, SLD affects 10-15 percent of the general population, making successful identification an essential skill for those who work with children. Essentials of Specific Learning Disability Identification provides authoritative guidance and practical methods that can help you start changing children's lives today.

Evidence-Based Interventions for Students with Learning and Behavioral Challenges

Evidence-Based Interventions for Students with Learning and Behavioral Challenges PDF Author: Richard J. Morris
Publisher: Routledge
ISBN: 1135925143
Category : Education
Languages : en
Pages : 436

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Book Description
This book assembles into one volume summaries of school-based intervention research that relates to those who deal on a regular basis with the growing body of students having high-incidence learning disabilities and/or behavior disorders: special educators, school psychologists, and clinical child psychologists. Chapter authors begin with an overview of their topic followed by a brief section on historical perspectives before moving on to the main section – a critical discussion of empirically based intervention procedures. In those instances where evidence-based prescriptions can legitimately be made, authors discuss best practices and the conditions (e.g., classroom environment, teacher expertise) under which these practices are most effective. A final section deals with policy issues.

Handbook of Multicultural School Psychology

Handbook of Multicultural School Psychology PDF Author: Emilia C. Lopez
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
ISBN: 1135015198
Category : Education
Languages : en
Pages : 497

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Book Description
The second edition of the Handbook of Multicultural School Psychology continues the mission of its predecessor, offering a comprehensive, interdisciplinary view of the field of multicultural school psychology and addressing the needs of children and families from diverse cultural backgrounds. The revised organizational structure includes the following: History and Professional Issues; Consultation and Collaboration; Interventions Focused on Academic and Mental Health Issues; Data-based Decision Making; Systems-based Issues; Training and Research; and Future Perspectives. Nineteen of the volume's twenty-three chapters are completely new to this edition, while the rest have been effectively revised and updated. Comprehensive—In seven sections, this book covers theoretical, research, and practical concerns in a wide range of areas that include multicultural and bilingual issues, second language acquisition, acculturation, parent collaboration, research, and systemic issues. Chapter Structure—Chapter authors follow a uniform structure that includes theoretical and research issues and implications for practice. Recent practice and training guidelines including Blueprint for Training and Practice III (2006), NASP Model for Comprehensive and Integrated School Psychological Services (2010), and APA Multicultural Guidelines (2003) are covered. Interdisciplinary Perspective—Contributing authors are from a wide range of related fields that include school psychology, special education, general education, early childhood education, educational psychology, clinical psychology, counseling, and mental health, thus exposing readers to theory and research from various approaches. Changes—New to this edition is a section focusing on systemic issues such as overrepresentation of culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students in special education, prejudice, response to intervention (RTI) for CLD students and English Language Learners (ELL), and end-of-chapter discussion questions. This book is ideal for graduate courses and seminars on multicultural school psychology. It is also a useful reference for researchers and practicing school psychologists and the libraries that serve them.