subject: Learning Disabilities and Understanding enough to Help [print this page] Possessing one term that defines this category of children with disabilities decreases a bit of the confusion, yet there are several theories that are conflicting concerning how many there are and the causes. The label "learning disabilities" is all-including; it defines a syndrome, not a certain kid with particluar issues. The description helps in categorizing kids, not teaching them. Teachers and parents must focus on the individual kid.
Learning Disability Characteristics
A learning disability is characterized by a relevant difference within the kid's achievement in a few areas, as compared to her or his total intelligence. Children who possess learning disabilities might show a wide variety of traits, involving issues with reasoning ability, writing, spoken language or reading comprehension. Perceptual coordination problems, inattention, and hyperactivity might be linked with learning disabilities. Other traits which might be shown involve different symptoms, like motor disorders, uneven and unpredictable test performance, perceptual impairments and behaviors like low tolerance for frustration, impulsiveness and issues in handling daily social situations and interactions.
* Language that is spoken: Discrepancies, disorders or delays in speaking and listening
* Language that is written: Hardships with spelling, reading, and writing
* Math: Performance difficulty in mathematic functions or in understanding simple concepts
* Reasoning: Hardship in integrating and organizing thoughts
* Skills of organization: Hardship in organizing all aspects of learning
Implications of Education
Due to learning disabilities being manifested in different behavioral patterns, the Individual Education Program should be carefully designed. Team approaches are vital for educating a kid who has learning disabilities, starting with the process of assessment and going through to the creation of the Individual Education Program. Thorough collaboration amongst regular class teachers, special class teachers, parents, resource room teachers and others will bring about the total development of a kid who has learning disabilities.
A few teachers have reported that these strategies have been beneficial:
* Must capitalize on the strengths of a child
* Must provide clear expectations and high structure
* Utilize simple vocabulary and short sentences
* Offer opportunities to be successful within a supportive atmosphere to aid in building self-esteem
* Must allow flexibility in classroom procedures (that is, allowing the usage of tape recorders for taking notes and taking tests when children have issues with written language)
* Utilize materials that are self-correcting, that offer feedback immediately without embarrassing the child
* Usage of computers for practice and drill and word processing teaching
* Offer positive reinforcement of correct social skills at home and school
* Realize that children who have learning disabilities could benefit from the gift of time to mature and grow
Learning Disabilities and Understanding enough to Help
