Adopting Textbooks and Other Instructional Materials

Abstract

For textbooks and other instructional materials to enhance learning by all students, adoption policies must promote thoughtful consideration of the learning characteristics of students with disabilities and other diverse learners. To determine opportunities to foster such consideration during the review and selection of materials, we studied previous research on instructional materials and diverse learners, and, through document reviews and fieldwork, we directly investigated state and local adoption processes across the nation. From our reviews and fieldwork we developed guidelines for improving practice, including an organizational model based on best practices and an action plan to aid policymakers and practitioners.