Looking Beyond RtI Standard Treatment Approach: It's Not Too Late to Embrace the Problem-Solving Approach

Abstract

There are two approaches for providing Tier 2 interventions within Response to Intervention (RtI): standard treatment protocol (STP) and the problem-solving approach (PSA). This article describes the multi-tiered RtI prevention model being implemented across the United States through an analysis of these two approaches in reading instruction. It examines the drawbacks of relying solely on STP, the currently preferred method for delivering interventions to meet the needs of struggling readers, and advocates for the consideration of PSA at Tier 2 to achieve the goal of RtI: high-quality instruction for all and meeting the needs of individual students.

Keywords:

• problem solving approach
• reading
• Response to Intervention (RtI)
• standard treatment protocol
• tier 2 interventions

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Diane King

Diane King is an associate professor in the Department of Special Education at Kutztown University. Her current research interests are the problem-solving approach in RtI, multicultural education for students with significant intellectual challenges, and special education teacher diversity issues.

Patricia Kathleen Coughlin

Patricia Kathleen Coughlin is a retired elementary school administrator and university professor. Her current research interests are application of change theory in reform initiatives as well as Response to Intervention.