Research Institute for the Study of Learning Disabilities (Columbia University)

Abstract

The Bureau of Education for the Handicapped, through Title VI-G of PL 91–230 has funded five research institutes in learning disabilities. These institutes are to: a) conduct research on the nature and educational treatment of children with specific learning disabilities, b) work directly with client populations, and c) produce a set of responsible educational interventions. The reasearch institutes are located at the following universities: University of Illinois - Chicago, Columbia University - Teachers College, University of Kansas, University of Minnesota, and University of Virginia.

During this first year of funding all institutes are involved in program planning and the refinement of their research missions. Programmatic research efforts will begin in the summer or fall of 1978 and will continue for as long as four years.

The establishment of five major research institutes is a very significant step in the learning disability field. Historically, Title VI-G funds have focused primarily on the demonstration of existing research and practice through Child Service Demonstration Centers. The goal of these model centers over the past five years has been that of providing effective educational services and training, but through these efforts, many conceptual and educational concerns have surfaced. It has become clear that their resolution depends on intensive research efforts. The research institutes are directed to this end.

The following summaries provide an overview of each of the institutes' major goals and focus. The Quarterly will be disseminating information from the institutes in future issues.