A comparison of the norms and expectations of secondary learning disability teachers and secondary principals in the state of Oklahoma toward specific areas of Public Law 94-142 as it relates to learning disabilities /

Abstract

Results of non-parametic statistics, frequencies, and percents were expressed through tables. The findings were utilized to determine conclusions and recommendations.

A review of the literature was performed. Special attention was given to the history of Public Law 94-142, controversies surrounding the law, curriculum findings, and methods of enhancing programs.

The purpose of this study was to compare the norms and expectations of secondary school learning disability teachers and secondary school principals in the state of Oklahoma toward specific areas of Public Law 94-142 as it relates to learning disabilities. Four null hypotheses and four related questions were developed.

A questionnaire was developed to ascertain the data necessary to test the hypotheses and draw conclusions about the related questions. Each hypothesis was tested through methods of non-parametric statistics. The Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-ranks test was utilized to test HO and HO(, 1). The Mann Whitney U Test was used to test HO(, 2) and HO(, 3). A significant difference was determined for HO, HO(, 1), and HO(, 3). No significant difference was noted for HO(, 4). Each item from the questionnaire was also tested using non-parametric statistics. The Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-ranks test and the Chi Square Test were utilized to determine differences within each item. Frequency and percents were also reviewed to enhance the findings.