OAR 581-002-1800: Dyslexia-Related Training: Definitions

The following definitions apply to OAR 581-002-1805 and 581-002-1810: (1) “Dyslexia” means a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate or fluent word recognition, or both, and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge. (2) “Explicit” means direct, face-to-face teaching that involves teacher explanation, demonstration, and the provision of ongoing corrective feedback. (3) “Evidence-based” means instructional practices with a proven record of success based on reliable, trustworthy, and valid evidence that when the practices are implemented with fidelity, students can be expected to make adequate gains in reading achievement. (4) “Kindergarten through grade five school” means any public school that enrolls students in kindergarten or grade one including, but not limited to, kindergarten through grade eight schools, kindergarten through grade 12 schools, and primary schools serving students in kindergarten through grade two. (5) “Professional educator” means any licensed or registered, or certified person who is authorized to: (a) engage in an instructional program including teaching, counseling, school psychology, administering, and supervising; or (b) engage in speech language pathology. (6) “Systematic” means a carefully planned sequence of instruction with lessons that build on previously taught information, from simple to complex.