Learning disabilities are neurological disorders which affect the way the brain processes problems, thus interfering with learning basic skills such as reading (e.g. dyslexia), writing (e.g. dysgraphia), mathematics (e.g. dyscalculia) and reasoning. Although the learning disability cannot be cured or fixed, the person usually has difficulty learning in a typical manner, without excluding the ability to learn in a different manner. Thus, with the right support and intervention, children with learning disabilities can succeed in school. However, it is important to realize that learning disabilities can affect an individual’s life beyond academics and can impact relationships with family, friends and in the workplace. Some of the most common specific learning disabilities are: dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, auditory processing disorder, language processing disorder, non-verbal learning disabilities, and visual perceptual/visual motor deficit.
Video explanation of learning disability:
(1) The National Center for Learning Disabilities – Learning disabilities, what are the different types?
Examples of what people with learning disability experience in everyday life:
(1) UWTV – Computer Tech and Learning Disabilities.
(2) Attitude – Portia wants a job: living with a learning disability.
(3) TEDx Talks, Lexie Garrity – Learning disability in higher education.
Bibliography
- Learning Disabilities Association of America. Url: https://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/
- Holmes, Katrina M., and Nessa O'loughlin. The experiences of people with learning disabilities on social networking sites. British Journal of Learning Disabilities 42.1 (2014): 1-5.
- National Center for Learning Disabilities. The state of Learning Disabilities, 2014. Url: http://www.hopkintonsepac.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/2014-State-of-LD.pdf.
- Swanson, H. Lee, and Karen R. Harris, eds. Handbook of learning disabilities. Guilford Press, 2013.