Reflections on a Research Career: Research as Detective Work

Abstract

The CEC Research Award recognizes researchers for the significant contributions they have made to special education. We believe that the members of this distinguished group have much to share with our readers. We have invited each of them to contribute an article, addressing their perspectives on special education research and practices. Naomi Zigmond was awarded the Research Award in 1997. This article by Naomi Zigmond presents her perspective of research as detective work, starting from the investigation of dyslexia, and progressing over time to such topics as the design of secondary education for students with learning disabilities, dropouts, classroom and instructional variables, and educating students with chronic medical problems in inclusive schools.