The Future of the LD Field

Abstract

A mail survey was conducted among prominent LD professionals to assess their views about the most fundamental concerns facing the field in the next decade. For purposes of this presentation, the findings from the 85 respondents are discussed, first in terms of several overriding considerations; then, specific issues and problems associated with theory, research, practice, training, and field and policy activity are explored. In highlighting interrelationships among concerns, respondents underscored the link between improving the quality of theory and upgrading research, practice, training, and policy making. The discussion stresses building an agenda for the future as the key to the field's integrity, viability, and survival.