Two highly contrasting models of early education for mildly handicapped children, Direct Instruction and Mediated Learning, were compared in a randomized design. A systematic classroom observation system validated differences between the two programs. Both programs evidenced gains for pupils, but with a differential effect for specific measures: Direct Instruction led to greater gains on the Test of Early Language Development and the Basic Language Concepts test; whereas Mediated Learning led to greater gains on the McCarthy Verbal and Memory Scales and Mean Length of Utterance. No significant aptitude-by-treatment interactions were obtained.
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