Helping School Psychologists and Districts Estimate the Cost of Adopting the Dual Discrepancy/Consistency PSW Method for SLD Identification

Abstract

Abstract The objective of this study is to assist school psychologists and school districts in understanding the cost of implementing the Dual Discrepancy/Consistency (DD/C) method, which is the most widely used PSW method of SLD identification. A literature review was conducted to obtain national data on variables needed to estimate the cost of implementing DD/C (e.g., school psychologist to student ratio, a district’s assessment infrastructure). A national survey of school psychologists was conducted to gather information not found in the literature. Based on the obtained data, we modified existing assumptions and recalculated the cost of implementing DD/C. Our literature review found only one study, authored by Williams and Miciak, that addressed the cost of PSW and it was specific to DD/C. Responses from 468 school psychologists revealed that most districts have an assessment infrastructure. Our recalculated cost of implementing DD/C is approximately $190,000 less than Williams and Miciak’s estimate. Our recalculated cost of an evaluation ranged from $368.56 to $376.22, which is $1,671.24 and $1,570.55 lower than William and Miciak’s estimates, respectively. Research on learning and learning disabilities indicates that specific cognitive processes are relevant to the acquisition and development of academic skills. Evaluations that follow DD/C encourage assessment of these cognitive processes. We conclude that the cost of adopting DD/C should be based primarily on the software needed to implement it ($65.00/ psychologist) and at least one day of professional development training. Because the cost seems reasonable for most districts, DD/C should be given serious consideration.