Exceptional Learners is an outstanding introduction to the characteristics of exceptional learners and their education, emphasizing classroom practices as well as the psychological, sociological, and medical aspects of disabilities and giftedness.  In keeping with this era of accountability, all discussions and examples of educational practices are grounded in a sound research base.   With over 600 new references added to the 11th edition, the authors are committed to bringing the most current and credible perspectives to bear on the ever-increasing complexity of educating students with special needs in today’s schools.  The authors believe firmly that responsible instruction can help all students to maximize their potential, and they offer practical suggestions for ways in which educators can meet the educational needs of students with special needs and diverse abilities in collaborative environments that include families, other professionals, and the community.    HIGHLIGHTS OF WHAT'S NEW IN THE ELEVENTH EDITION:  Over 600 new references have been added, reflecting the authors’ commitment to present readers with the most current perspectives on the ever-increasingly complex issues involved in educating students with disabilities in today’s schools. NEW Assessment of Academic Progress sections in all categorical chapters provide readers with category-specific information about Progress Monitoring, Outcome Measures, Testing Accommodations and Alternative Assessment for students with special needs.  Significantly reorganized Chapter 2, "Integration, Inclusion, and Support of Positive Outcomes" both provides new information on Universal Design, use of technologies, differentiated instruction, response to intervention (RTI), and assessment of academic progress and student outcomes, highlighting the current focus of federal mandates (e.g. NCLB, IDEA) on student outcomes, and makes it easier for students to absorb that information. Increased coverage of Response to Intervention (RTI) in accordance with changes to federal law, including major new sections in Chapter 2 and Chapter 6, emphasises the importance of multi-tiered assessment to readers. Marginal references throughout the text make it easy for readers to use the relevant multimedia assets on the MyEducationLab website created specifically to accompany Exceptional Learners, 11e, to improve their mastery of key concepts.   New information on Identifying and Implementing Effective Reading Instruction (for English Language Learners). New information on Parent Training and Information Centers and Community Parent Resource Centers. New discussion of the change in terminology from mental retardation to intellectual and developmental disabilities. New information on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. The lastest research on gullibility as a characteristic of persons with mild intellectual disabilities. New research on neuroimaging and genetics findings relevant to the causes of Learning Disabilities and ADH. New Skills definition of blindness. The latest research on the role of visual-spatial abilities in autism. Read Less