SLD Models and Assessment Data Sources: Effects on Identification and Confidence

This U.S. study experimentally examined whether specific learning disability (SLD) identification model (i.e., ability-achievement discrepancy [Ab-Ach], response-to-intervention [RtI], and patterns of strengths and weaknesses [PSW]) was associated with SLD identification decisions, the confidence in the decision, and the perceived importance of different assessment data sources in identifying SLD. Participants (N = 264) reviewed a psychoeducational evaluation vignette and determined whether the student should be identified with SLD based on the identification criteria for their randomly assigned condition (i.e., Ab-Ach, RtI, or PSW). Results indicated that type of SLD identification model used did not predict SLD identification decision or the confidence in the decision. However, participant race was related to SLD identification decisions, and participant race, national certification, and years of experience were related to decision confidence. School psychologists rated progress monitoring data, standardized tests, and educational record reviews as the most salient assessment data sources in identifying SLD.