Individual Differences and Learning Challenges

Abstract

In this article, we review selected papers published over the past 50 years of Theory Into Practice on the topic of special education and the study of individual differences. Although the field has witnessed substantial development over this period of time, several issues continue to be revisited, including overidentification of students from different racial, cultural, linguistic, or economic groups; and the degree to which students with disabilities should be included in general education classrooms. After describing how knowledge and practice has evolved over the past 5 decades, we discuss what the future is likely to bring to the field of individual differences and learning challenges.

Notes

1. We acknowledge and thank the considerable efforts of doctoral students Shannon Clancy and Jennie Tober to assist with the preparation of this article. Their supportive efforts have made this substantial task much easier and more enjoyable, and we wish them the best in their future endeavors.