Reading disabilities and instruction
By far the most frequently diagnosed learning disabilities are those that have to do with language, and more specifically with reading. A common learning disability manifested in reading problems is developmental reading disorder, also called dyslexia, or specific reading disability. Its main feature is impairment in recognizing words and in understanding what is read. These difficulties are not related to intellectual disability, physical problems such as deafness, or inadequate schooling. Other reading-related learning disabilities are sometimes evidence in any of the following problems: attention difficulty, perceptual problems, poor motivation or attitude, poor sound-symbol association, memory problems, language deficits, and transfer difficulties.
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Services and Programs
- Britt Henderson Training Series
This annual series of workshops provides training for general and special education teachers, with the goal of improving the quality of education for students with diverse learning needs in inclusive settings. - Curriculum-Based Measurement for Reading and Math
Weekly Curriculum-Based Measurement (CBM) tests provide systematic, frequent feedback to students and teachers. CBM is one of several validated classroom-based and school-wide interventions developed to increase educators' capacity to improve students' learning and to accommodate diverse learning needs. - Reading Clinic
The Reading Clinic provides intensive, individualized, one-to-one tutoring using assessment and instructional methods proven by research to promote reading; serving primarily children in early elementary grades. - Services for Educators
Includes outreach programs for educators. - Tennessee Disability Pathfinder - An internet community and statewide helpline
Phone, web, and print resources in English and Spanish to connect the Tennessee disability community with service providers. Referral services, free of cost, are provided to persons with disabilities, family members, service providers, and advocates.
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Links and Resources
- International Dyslexia Association
The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals with dyslexia, their families and the communities that support them. - National Center to Improve the Tools of Educators
NCITE's purpose is to advance the quality and effectiveness of technology, media, and materials for individuals with disabilities. NCITE creates a marketplace demand for the selection and appropriate use of research-based technology, media, and materials. - National Research Center on Learning Disabilities
The National Research Center on Learning Disabilities (NRCLD) conducts research on the identification of learning disabilities; formulates implementation recommendations; disseminates findings; and provides technical assistance to national, state, and local constituencies. - The IRIS Center
Funded by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), the IRIS Center develops training enhancement materials to be used by faculty and professional development providers for the preparation of current and future school personnel.
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Upcoming Events
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StudyFinder - Participate in a study related to Reading disabilities and instruction
Vanderbilt Kennedy Center researchers need subjects to complete the studies listed below.
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In the News
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