Skip Navigation

Home Products Strategies to identify and support English learners with learning disabilities

Strategies to identify and support English learners with learning disabilities

As the population of students who are English learners (EL students) increases, and the numbers of students with disabilities also are on the rise, educators often struggle with how to assess and address individuals’ needs. If an EL student experiences academic difficulties, is the issue one of language acquisition, a learning disability, or some other factor(s)? Educators also may not know where to turn for assistance. As a result, some EL students are under-identified for special education services while others are over-identified. The brief presents a summary of research and practice, based on our 2015 review, with a comparison of 15 guidance manuals for educators and other noteworthy resources for policymakers, administrators, and practitioners.

Online Availability


ERIC Descriptors

Resource Information

West | Resource Type: Resource | Resource
Date: February 2020

Connect with REL West