Updated May 2010
Authors
Dr. Barbara Smith & Kyrie Dragoo
Research Analysts, NICHCY
Here’s a multitude of educational research connections you might find useful as you plan and deliver services to children with disabilities:
- Disability research, in general
- Research on AD/HD
- Research on Autism
- Research on Emotional/Behavioral Disturbance
- Research on Intellectual Disabilities
- Research on Learning Disabilities
Starting with Disability Research, in General
Research at NIH: What we know and what we’re trying to find out.
http://health.nih.gov/
The National Institutes of Health, a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is the nation’s medical research agency—making important medical discoveries that improve health and save lives. The link above takes you to the Browse Health Categories, where you can select the disability area of interest and connect with the latest information and research (what we know to date). If you’d like to know more about current research protocols underway (what NIH is investigating), visit:
http://www.nih.gov/science/
Research at the CDC.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website is CDC’s primary online communication channel for providing users with credible, reliable health information, much of it based upon CDC’s own research. The link above takes you to CDC’s Diseases and Conditions A-Z index, where you can select areas of interest, including asthma, autism, birth defects, diabetes, epilepsy, and much more.
http://www.cdc.gov/DiseasesConditions/
Find effective teaching techniques for different disabilities.
Students studying special education at the University of Virginia Curry School of Education and East Tennessee State University College of Education have read and summarized scores of research articles about methods for teaching specific skills to individuals with disabilities. Take advantage of their work in the areas of: reading, spelling, handwriting, writing, math, content instruction, behavioral challenges, language skills, social skills, vocational skills, and functional skills.
http://special.edschool.virginia.edu/information/interventions.html
Learning and the brain.
Recent brain research is giving us insight into how the brain works, how we learn, and how our brains are alike and different. We’ve organized this “starter” pack of resources on brain research, because it’s more than merely fascinating. It has direct connections to the classroom and our educational practices with all students.
http://www.nichcy.org/schoolage/effective-practices/brain101/
Teaching for understanding in inclusive classrooms.
Traditional lectures, exercises, and drills may help students memorize facts and formulas and get the right answers on tests. But they don’t help students achieve the depth of understanding they need to understand complex ideas and apply knowledge in new settings or situations. What does work, particularly with students who have disabilities? Read NCSET’s Research to Practice Brief on the subject, at the link below.
www.ncset.org/publications/viewdesc.asp?id=1309
Finding Research Connections for Specific Disabilities
What light is research shedding with respect to specific disabilities? Connect with that research for AD/HD, autism spectrum disorders, emotional/behavior challenges, and intellectual disabilities.
AD/HD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
Healthy Children: ADHD.
From the American Academy of Pediatrics, this resource landing page is chock-ful of info on ADHD.
http://www.healthychildren.org/english/health-issues/conditions/adhd/Pages/default.aspx
Genetics behind ADHD.
This article in Psychiatric Times is from June 2009.
http://www.psychiatrictimes.com/display/article/10168/1420971
Research on Treatments for ADHD.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Latest-Research-on-New-ADHD-Treatments&id=3518280
Identifying and Treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Resource for School and Home.
A publication from the U.S. Department of Education.
http://www.ed.gov/teachers/needs/speced/adhd/adhd-resource-pt1.doc
A Review of the Research on Interventions for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: What Works Best?
(2002, Spring). Review of Educational Research, Vol. 72, No. 1, 61–99.
Not available online. Visit the journal Web site at: www.aera.net for details of how to order.
Teaching Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Instructional Strategies and Practices.
A publication from the U.S. Department of Education.
http://www.ed.gov/rschstat/research/pubs/adhd/adhd-teaching_pg3.html
“Effects of School-Based Interventions for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Meta-Analysis” | A structured abstract from NICHCY.
A research summary from our Research Center.
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract2
Another summary of a meta-analysis of research.
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract10
Cognitive Behavior Modification of Hyperactivity-Impulsivity and Aggression: A Meta-Analysis of School-Based Studies” | A structured abstract from NICHCY.
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract59
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
Autism spectrum disorders—medically speaking.
What’s scientific investigation revealing about ASDs? Find out, beginning with these three sources:
NICHD.
That’s the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, at the National Institutes of Health.
http://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/asd.cfm
National Institute of Mental Health.
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-pervasive-developmental-disorders/index.shtml
Autism Speaks.
http://www.autismspeaks.org/index.php
Specific areas of the brain linked to ASDs.
Using advanced imaging technology, a research team headed by Dr. Martha R. Herbert of the Massachusetts General Hospital and the Harvard Medical School in Boston has identified specific portions of the brain’s white matter that are abnormally large in children with autism and developmental language disorder. Read more at:
http://www.autismtoday.com/articles/MGH-Study-Details-Brain-Changes-In-Autism-Language-Disorder.htm
Largest study ever launched.
In 2004, the National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR) launched the Autism Genome Project, the largest study ever conducted to find the genes associated with inherited risk for autism. The project is using DNA array technology to scan the human genome and includes 1,500 families. Read more at:
http://www.autismspeaks.org/inthenews/naar_archive/largest_autism_genetics.php
Easter Seals’ Living with Autism study.
In cooperation with the Autism Society of America, Easter Seals surveyed over 2,500 parents of children with autism and typically-developing children about daily life, relationships, independence, education, housing, employment, finances and healthcare. Here’s what they found.
http://tinyurl.com/aqpqmn
The genetics of autism.
This website is dedicated to helping families who are living with the challenges of autism stay informed about the exciting breakthroughs involving the genetics of autism.
http://www.exploringautism.org/
For parents looking for research on autism.
This guide, entitled Life Journey Through Autism: A Parent’s Guide to Research, is intended to help parents become “savvy” about finding and consuming information on autism, with special emphasis upon examining the research. Sources of this information are presented. The science model is then explained, along with a framework for evaluating research studies and the current state of autism research.
http://www.researchautism.org/uploads/parents%20guide.pdf
Autism Onset Patterns Linked to Developmental Outcomes.
In children under age 3, the onset of autism has three distinct patterns — regression, plateau, and no loss or plateau — which substantially affect developmental, diagnostic and educational outcomes, according to a study published April 2, 2010 in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
http://www.mentalhelp.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=news&id=128313&cn=37
And what about educating students with autism?
The Committee on Educational Inverventions for Children with Autism, National Research Council, offers Educating Students with Autism, which examines the scientific knowledge underlying educational practices, programs, and strategies for children with this disability.
http://www.nap.edu/catalog/10017.html
And you may be interested in these NICHCY structured abstracts of educational research and meta-analyses involving children with an autism spectrum disorder.
Summary of “A Meta-Analysis of Video Modeling and Video Self-Modeling Interventions for Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders.”
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract72
Summary of “A Meta-Analysis of School-Based Social Skills Interventions for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders.”
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract75
Emotional / Behavioral Disturbances
Visit the leading authority on research into mental disorders…NIMH.
The National Institute on Mental Health (NIMH) is the largest scientific organization in the world dedicated to research focused on the understanding and prevention of mental disorders and the promotion of mental health. The link above will take you to the “mental health topics” page from which you can drill down to topics of interest to you (e.g., anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders) and relevant research.
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/index.shtml
Visit NAMI’s research section.
NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness. The link above takes you to NAMI’s “Advances in Research” page, where you’ll find lots of connections to stay informed about where research is being conducted into mental disorders and what findings are emerging.
http://www.nami.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Inform_Yourself/About_Research/Advances_in_Research.htm
Learning/Management Model Effective for Anxiety Treatment.
A blended intervention approach to anxiety treatment is superior to usual care for patients treated in primary care clinics, according to research published May 18, 2010 in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
http://www.mentalhelp.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=news&id=128419&cn=91
Education and mental illness.
Here you’ll find information and resources for students, parents, teachers, and counselors that provide insight, tips, and suggestions for helping young people to cope with mental illness and enjoy success in school and in life.
http://www.cmha.ca/bins/content_page.asp?cid=3-110
NICHCY also offers structured abstracts of educational research and meta-analyses involving children with an emotional or behavioral disturbance. These include:
Social Skills Interventions with Students with Emotional and Behavioral Problems: A Quantitative Synthesis of Single-Subject Research
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract5
A Meta-Analysis of Social Skill Interventions for Students with Emotional or Behavioral Disorders
http://www.nichcy.org//research/summaries/abstract33
Peer-Mediated Intervention Studies on Academic Achievement for Students with EBD: A Review
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract34
The Effects of School-Based Intervention Programs on Aggressive Behavior: A Meta-Analysis
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract7
Rational Emotive Therapy with Children and Adolescents
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract8
Effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Reducing Classroom Disruptive Behaviors: A Meta-Analysis
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract45
Educational Environments for the Pupil with Behavioral Disorders: A "Best Evidence" Synthesis
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract63
Efficacy of Child Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions for Antisocial Behavior: A Meta-Analysis
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract65
A Meta-Analysis of Intervention Research with Problem Behavior: Treatment Validity and Standards of Practice
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract60
A Meta-Analysis of Interventions to Decrease Disruptive Classroom Behavior in Public Education Settings
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract61
Effects of Child Skills Training in Preventing Antisocial Behavior: A Systematic Review of Randomized Evaluations
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract66
Effects of School-based Social Information Processing Interventions on Aggressive Behavior: Part I: Universal Programs | A Campbell Collaboration Systematic Review.
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract71
Effects of School-based Social Information Processing Interventions on Aggressive Behavior: Part II: Selected or Indicated Pull-out Programs | A Campbell Collaboration Systematic Review.
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract77
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
11th edition of Intellectual Disability: Definition, Classification, and Systems of Supports.
A classic publication of the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD), the 11th edition contains the most current and authoritative information on intellectual disability, including best practice guidelines on diagnosing and classifying intellectual disability and developing a system of supports for people living with an intellectual disability. Cost to members: $ 76.50; Non-member cost: $ 90.00.
http://www.aaidd.org/intellectualdisabilitybook/
Imaging study discovers brain development differences in kids with Fragile X syndrome.
A May 2010 article from Science Daily.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/05/100503161239.htm
Down syndrome in the research news.
The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) directly funds annual basic, clinical, and applied research awards and, in partnership with NIH, supports research into how Down syndrome affects cognition and behavior. At the link above, find current news on scientific developments in all fields relating to Down syndrome; get info on studies seeking participants, along with contact information and requirements; and get info on current clinical trials and reports on recently completed trials.
http://www.ndss.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&id=40&Itemid=61
Research-based fact sheets on specific intellectual and developmental disabilities, from NIH.
Down syndrome:
http://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/downsyndrome.cfm
Rett syndrome:
http://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/upload/rett_syndrome_2006.pdf
Fragile X syndrome:
http://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/fragileXpdf.cfm
What research is the U.S. government doing on the subject of intellectual disabilities?
This 2005 report by the National Institutes of Child Health & Human Development discusses current research intiatives to learn more about Down syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), Angelman syndrome (AS), Rett syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, mental retardation, and autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
http://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/upload/Council_MRDD_2005.pdf
Environmental causes of intellectual disabilities.
This study provides the first global assessment of Environmentally-Mediated Intellectual Decline (EMID).
http://www.intellectualdisability.info/diagnosis/the-environmental-causes-of-intellectual-disabilities
Learning Disabilities
Teaching Reading Comprehension Strategies to Students with Learning Disabilities: A Review of Research.
(2001, Summer). Review of Educational Research, Vol. 71, No. 2. Not available online. Visit the journal Web site at:
www.aera.net for details of how to order.
Effective Mathematical Instruction.
From NICHCY’s Evidence for Education series. See especially part 3 in the discussion.
http://www.nichcy.org/research/ee/math/
The Research Roundup.
Visit the archive of Research Roundup at the National Center for Learning Disabilities.
http://www.ncld.org/ld-basics/research-roundup
Alerts: Keep up to date with what LD research is finding.
http://www.teachingld.org/
TeachingLD is a service of the Division for Learning Disabilities (DLD) of the Council for Exceptional Children. The Alerts series is a joint initiative of DLD and CEC’s Division for Research (DR). Learn more about the Alerts initiative and the instructional practices that have been examined so far at:
http://www.teachingld.org/ld_resources/default.htm
NICHCY is also pleased to offer these structured abstracts of educational research and meta-analyses involving children with LD.
How Effective Are One-to-One Tutoring Programs in Reading for Elementary Students at Risk for Reading Failure? A Meta-Analysis of the Intervention Research
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract3/
The Effects of Instruction in Solving Mathematical Word Problems for Students with Learning Problems: A Meta-Analysis
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract9/
Teaching Expressive Writing to Students with Learning Disabilities: A Meta-Analysis
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract13/
School-Based Interventions to Enhance the Self-Concept of Students with Learning Disabilities: A Meta-Analysis
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract18/
Students with Learning Disabilities and the Process of Writing: A Meta-Analysis of SRSD Studies
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract19/
Graphic Organizers and Their Effects on the Reading Comprehension of Students with LD: A Synthesis of Research
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract21/
Treating Social Skill Deficits in Children with Learning Disabilities: A Meta-Analysis of the Research
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract26/
A Synthesis of Research on Effective Interventions for Building Reading Fluency with Elementary Students with Learning Disabilities
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract30/
Reading Research for Students with LD: A Meta-Analysis of Intervention Outcomes
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract32/
Searching for the Best Model for Instructing Students with Learning Disabilities
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract35/
Experimental Intervention Research on Students with Learning Disabilities: A Meta-Analysis of Treatment Outcomes
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract36/
Research on Interventions for Adolescents with Learning Disabilities: A Meta-Analysis of Outcomes Related to Higher-Order Processing
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract62/
A Selective Synthesis of Intervention Research for Students with Learning Disabilities
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract64/
Computer Assisted Instruction in Reading for Students with Learning Disabilities: A Research Synthesis
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract46/
Treating Social Skill Deficits in Children with Learning Disabilities: A Meta-Analysis of the Research
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract26/
For Which Students with Learning Disabilities Are Self-Concept Interventions Effective?
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract56/
Social Skill Deficits and Learning Disabilities: A Meta-Analysis
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract57/
Social Skills Interventions for Individuals with Learning Disabilities
http://www.nichcy.org/research/summaries/abstract67/
Would you like to visit another page in NICHCY’s series on Research Basics?
If so, the links below will speed you on your way there.
Research 101 | What makes for good research?
Research 102: Adding Up the Evidence | How do you combine the findings of multiple research studies?
Finding Statistics | Looking for statistics for your own work?
Research Terms | A glossary.
Making Sense of Statistics in Research | Don’t let stats throw you.
Weighing Info for Its Worth | Is this research well done?
Special Education Research: Where to Start? | How to begin finding and applying research.
What Works: Can We Say? | Where can I find information on evidence-based practices?
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