Learning Disability Defined

Those with learning disabilities display adequate cognitive function and the ability to learn certain skills and knowledge relatively quickly, but they often have great difficulty in acquiring other skills and strategies. For example, a student with a learning disability may perform at (or above) grade level in one subject, such as math, but struggle significantly with reading. In order to have a diagnosis for a learning disability, a person must have an average or higher IQ. Therefore, a person with a learning disability is not low in intelligence; rather he/she is someone who has difficulty with certain processes of interpreting, storing, or expressing information.

Common Symptoms

There are numerous symptoms that individuals might display if they have learning disabilities. The symptoms vary widely depending on the type of learning disability present. Some common symptoms of learning disabilities include:

• Difficulty processing information
• Difficulty in memory function
• Difficulty attaining skills
• Reversals of letters and numbers
• Extremely messy handwriting (cannot write neatly even with effort)
• Difficulty reading a map or interpreting symbols
• Low achievement in comparison to age and ability level
• Not remembering a skill learned yesterday, but may know it tomorrow
• Difficulty remembering what was just told to them

It is interesting to note that a person may have a learning disability that seems to affect one area, such as the ability to take notes, follow a lecture, or copy from the board, and at the same time perform at, or even above, grade level in another subject area.

Living with Learning Disabilities

A person with a learning disability may need some modifications in instruction, curriculum, or even the work environment in order to be successful. These accommodations may be simple, such as being allowed to make audio recordings of lectures or meetings, or being allowed to use a word processor for writing assignments. These modifications address the specific disability and allow the learner to succeed and achieve in that area. Some individuals may need more deliberate intervention and specialized instruction to help them develop strategies and skills.

If a learning disability is suspected, an evaluation by a professional who specializes in identifying learning disabilities is needed. Once a diagnosis is made, a plan for treatment or accommodations can be made. In the school setting, a student with a diagnosed learning disability qualifies for an Individual Education Plan (IEP) to help him or her be successful in school and reach full academic potential. The IEP will be tailored to the specific needs of the individual. Teachers, parents, specialists, and other individuals who work with the student will work together to develop an appropriate IEP. Because accommodations for learning disabilities are governed by federal law, you can access an abundance of information through the U.S. Department of Education's website at http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/index.html

Accomplish and Succeed

A learning disability does not doom a child to poor learning environments, lower standards, and lower achievement. If your child has a learning disability, be an advocate and help ensure a bright future and a successful education. Begin by finding out what you can do to help. Our experts in special education can help you help your child.