Screening College Students for Potential Learning Disabilities

Authors

  • Joseph W. Madaus

Abstract

Due to the complex nature of diagnosing learning disabilities in adults, postsecondary learning disabilities support programs that are planning to implement or are currently using an assessment program for students with suspected but undiagnosed learning disabilities may wish to consider a comprehensive screening process as part ofthe assessment battery. An effective screening process can assist service providers search for potential indicators of learning disabilities before proceeding with a complete evaluation, helping to maximize program resources. This descriptive article presents an overview of a screening process developed by a postsecondary institution in the northeast that has a comprehensive support program for students with learning disabilities. The steps in the process are outlined, as are the successes, challenges, and limitations ofthe process. Finally, recommendations for programs that are considering adapting a screening process are provided.

Issue

Section

Articles