Why a change to the PSW Model
{"Image DocumentName": "Why a change to the PSW Model?", "Image ImageDescription": "Federal law (IDEA 2004) allows for alternative research-based approaches. CA state regulations specifically allow for the use of the Pattern of Strengths and Weaknesses Model. SLD is the largest eligibility category. Many concerns with discrepancy model. When we are completing assessments for students with possible learning disabilities, the law now states that we do not have to use the discrepancy model, the model that we have previously used. Instead, we can use the research-based Pattern of Strengths and Weaknesses model, referred to as PSW, to determine whether a student has a learning disability. Both Federal and State criteria allow for the use of models other than the discrepancy model for SLD identification. Federal law refers to the use of alternative research-based procedures and CA Education Code, which was updated in 2014, specifically refers to the use of a Pattern of Strengths and Weaknesses model (PSW). Therefore, the use of the PSW model is a legal model according to both federal and state criteria. One of the reasons why our SELPA has spent time on a new model for SLD identification is because SLD is the largest group of students identified for special education amongst the 13 areas of eligibility. In Dec 2013, 6,186 students were identified as SLD within the Ventura County SELPA. Therefore, Ventura County SELPA wanted to move to a model that was research-based. There has been much criticism surrounding the use of the discrepancy model for SLD identification.", "Image XResolution": "37", "Image YResolution": "37", "Image ResolutionUnit": "Pixels/Centimeter", "Image Software": "SlidePlayer", "Image YCbCrPositioning": "Centered"}