Analyzing the Performance of Learning Disability Centers in Facilitating Learning: Quantitative Findings from Teachers’ Perspectives

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Assistant Professor of Research, Research Institute for Development Studies, Academic Jihad Organization.Tehran, Iran.

2 Researcher, Research Institute for Development Studies, Academic Jihad Organization, Tehran, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor of Research, Research Institute for Development Studies, Academic Jihad Organization, Tehran, Iran.

4 Associate Professor at Farhangian University of Isfahan, Tehran, Iran

Abstract
Learning disability centers play an important role in identifying and supporting elementary school students with specific learning difficulties. Evaluating the performance of these centers is essential for improving educational services and facilitating students’ learning process. The present study aimed to examine the performance of learning disability centers and their role in facilitating the learning process of elementary school students in Isfahan Province. Although the broader research adopted a mixed-methods design, this article reported only the quantitative phase using a descriptive survey approach. The statistical population consisted of elementary school teachers in Isfahan Province who had referred students with learning difficulties to specialized centers, and 371 teachers were selected through multistage cluster sampling. Data were collected using a 25-item researcher-made questionnaire developed by the authors in 2022. Its content validity was confirmed by experts in educational sciences and its reliability was established through Cronbach’s alpha. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, as well as exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The findings indicated that the instrument had acceptable validity and high reliability, and its factor structure was confirmed. The results showed that the performance of learning disability centers was generally favorable and that these centers contributed to facilitating the learning process of students with special needs. However, weaknesses were observed in coordination among related sectors and in collaboration with schools and parents. Strengthening coordination and collaboration among centers, schools, and families is therefore necessary to improve the effectiveness of these services.

The results of the quantitative data analysis indicated that the mean overall performance of Learning Disabilities Centers from teachers’ perspectives, measured on a four-point Likert scale (0–3), was below the theoretical midpoint (1.5). In addition, the results of the one-sample *t*-test showed that the overall performance and most components were significantly lower than the average level. The qualitative findings also revealed that these centers face several challenges, including weak communication with schools, limited collaboration with parents, and structural and administrative barriers.
Overall, the findings suggest that although Learning Disabilities Centers have the potential capacity to facilitate students’ learning, improving their performance requires revising service delivery practices, strengthening intersectoral interactions, and addressing existing structural and operational barriers.

Keywords

Subjects

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