Learning Mystique [Hardcover]

Gerald Coles (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 12, 1987

Today, with alarming frequency, children of normal intelligence who do not perform at the same level as their peers are branded "learning disabled", the victims of a neurological dysfunction. This book demonstrates that the theories behind neurological explanations are unproven.

--This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

During the past two decades, children who fail to master their early grade-level work have been diagnosed as "learning disabled" because of "minimal neurological dysfunctions." A vast subcultureresearch programs, professional papers, etc.supported by educators, psychologists and doctors has developed to provide treatment and remediation for the inexplicable conditions. Yet, as Coles points out in this important critique, there is little concrete, scientific evidence to prove the condition exists as described. By proposing an alternative theory, one that focuses on a variety of social and familial relationships experienced by children, as well as individual neurological differences that are not necessarily dysfunctions, Coles challenges the educational establishment. His findings must be considered by educators and others concerned about children who fail to thrive in the classroom. Coles is professor of clinical psychology at the Robert Wood Johnson (formerly Rutgers) Medical School in New Jersey.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

The author argues against today's dominant theory that learning disabilities are caused by neurological deficits. He explains the development of this paradigm as the response of our educational system to post-war social and economic trends. Coles first examines the history of dyslexia research, finding most of it to be inconclusive. He then presents a new model of learning problems, in which family and school environments are the major determinants of academic success. In this "interactive" paradigm, the attitudes and methods of education are more important than inherent strengths or deficits of the individual child. This book prompts us to reexamine some of our educational system's basic assumptions.Amy Goffman, Children's Rehabilitation Ctr., Charlottesville, Va.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 352 pages
• Publisher: Pantheon (December 12, 1987)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0394548981
• ISBN-13: 978-0394548982
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 5.9 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,506,668 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4.0 out of 5 stars Outdated, but worth reading nonetheless, July 3, 2011

By 

Nathan Lorentz "NLorentz" (Chicago, IL , USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Learning Mystique: A Critical Look at "Learning Disabilities" (Paperback)

The only fault I attach to this excellent book is that it was published in 1989. A huge portion of the text is devoted to critiquing the "science" done on learning disorders up to the time of printing. That section is excellent, but in the last 22 years, we've seen the advent and widespread use of more modern imaging techniques (mri, ct, pet...) and we need a good critical review of that work. Granted, the book paints a picture that lets us predict what that research probably looks like, but it is still important. That aside, this is an intelligent, critical evaluation of the field/industry of learning disorders and their treatment. What we see happening in the "science" is not science, it is a desperate scramble to prove a neurological basis for LD, making researchers deaf to evidence to the contrary. Along the way, Coles highlights studies that have shown successful remedial programs for LD as well as a proposal for a more adequate explanation for its cause which does not neglect complex environmental factors. A great book not just for educators or those interested in LD treatment. It is a lesson about critically evaluating research in whatever area (but particularly neurology and psychiatry). Highly recommended.

5.0 out of 5 stars Among the best books I've read on education, February 8, 2010

By 

John M. Haberstroh (Chicago, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Learning Mystique: A Critical Look at "Learning Disabilities" (Paperback)

While the focus is on learning disabilities, which is largely (though not completely) a product of researchers' insistence that they do exist, Cole's larger project seems to be to suggest what the real problems are in educating the 'disabled' and the economically disadvantaged (Coles focuses in particular on early reading instruction). Teachers, administrators, and educational theorists may need to look at themselves rather than blaming students' disabilities for their lack of learning. Administrators and teachers need to throw away their low expectations and make sure teaching is at the level at which a student enters the classroom, however difficult it may be to individualize instruction. Theorists need to accept that direct rather than implicit reading skills instruction is part of what's needed in primary school classrooms. Society in general can help out by spending the money to lower class sizes, especially for kindergarten and first grade, where nearly everyone should learn to read, even the more or less falsely labeled 'learning disabled'.

0 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Learning Mystique, March 24, 2009

By 

Jocelyn St Clair "Jocy-j" (Weehawken, NJ) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Learning Mystique: A Critical Look at "Learning Disabilities" (Paperback)

I bought a second hand book for a really good price. The condition of the book was like new and delivery on my purchase was so quick. I have to say that i am a very satisfied customer.