The Characteristics and Experiences of CanadianStudents Receiving Special Education Services fora Learning Disability

Abstract

This article provides a description of the demographic characteristics as well as the social and academic experiences of a nationally representative sample of Canadian students receiving special education services for a learning disability (LD) and a comparison group without disabilities (NLD). Data summarized in this article were drawn from the National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth (NLSCY), which contains information provided by teachers, parents, and students. Results indicate that the demographic characteristics of the LD group are similar to the NLD group. As well, no signifi cant differences were found between the self-reports of children in the LD and NLD groups regarding school and social experiences. However, differences exist in teachers’ perceptions of students’ educational potential, social skills, and motivation. The findings inform school efforts focused on reducing the drop-out rate of students with LD. Other implications for practice as wellas for future research are discussed.