Andrea D. Maraska Professor Julie Reed, MA October 21, 2008 Assignment: The underlying theory of RTI (Response to Intervention) is to identify and provide appropriate interventions (in the general education classroom) to struggling students. If implemented properly, these interventions could help these students solve their learning problems and perhaps avoid special education placement. Research the following web sites and post a 4-5 paragraph comparison of RTI and the discrepancy model currently used to identify learning disabilities. Discrepancy http://www.nasponline.org/resources/principals/RTI%20Part%201-NASSP%20February%2008.pdf Discrepancy Method There are major challenges to implementation of an RTImodel, including decisions about selecting and monitoring research-based interventions that are matched to students and implemented with fidelity and appropriate intensity, frequency, and duration. Other instructional issues that must be resolved include the environments in which various interventions will be provided and who will provide the interventions. Also to be resolved are the scheduling and the time needed for the team decision-making process, programs and interventions, and supports. To implement an RTIapproach, many questions about ensuring adequate resources must first be resolved. Some of the challenges that must be addressed are as follows: time will need to be allotted, space (required for interventions) and materials (technology for professional development, progress monitoring,) documentation (increased paperwork – identified by The President’s Commissionon Excellence in Special Education, 2002, as the main cause of dissatisfaction,) financial support, and the professional preparation of general education teachers. When various districts make different choices, an increase in the variability of eligible students from district to district can also be expected to increase. Although RTI can identify a pool of at-riskstudents, it does not...