Effectiveness of learning disability centers in improving learning disorder symptoms of students in Ardabil

The aim of the study was to examine the effectiveness of learning disability centers in improving learning disorder symptoms، and to identify their strenghts and weaknesses. From among all students referring to centers for specific learning difficulties in Ardabil province during the 2011 academic year، a sample of 248 students diagnosed with learning disorder was selected using a method of stratified sampling، and all the relevant case experts (25 individuals)، teachers (100 individuals)، and parents (124 individuals) responded to the survey. Within an experimental method using a pre- and post-test experimental and control and group design، tests of reading، spelling، and math، as well as a semi-structured interview and a researcher constructed questionnaire، were administered to collect data. Findings showed that these centers possess more strenghts than weaknesses. Results of a two-way ANCOVA indicated that the two groups of LD students (those receiving and those not receiving instruction at the center) differed significantly in reading ability، math ability، writing ability، and grade point average. No significant sex and interaction differences emerged. This study indicates that special education classes at centers for specific learning disabilities will improve LD symptoms in students.