Definitions and eligibility criteria applied to the adolescent and adult population with learning disabilities across agencies

The purpose of this study was to investigate the similarities and differenc es across state agencies serving adolescents and adults with learning disab ilities in relation to their definitions and eligibility criteria for servi ces. Significant differences were noted within and across agencies. Specifi c emphasis was given to investigating the 51 state departments of special e ducation (SPE) and vocational rehabilitation (VR), including Washington, DC . A conceptual framework consisting of 21 components was used in analyzing the definitions and criteria. A follow-up phone interview was conducted wit h 14 state departments of SPE and VR to provide additional input on current trends that might not have been reflected in the empirical data. An outcom e of those findings resulted in suggestions for definitions and eligibility criteria policy across state agencies.