Learning difficulties can be challenging to overcome, but not impossible.
A learning difficulty is a neurological disorder that impedes a person’s ability to learn. It is defined according to the Learning Disabilities Education Act, which states that it is a disorder with one or more psychological processes involved in communication that results in problems communicating, thinking, and performing mathematic calculations, but excludes sensory handicaps, mental retardation, and other problems resulting from outside influences.
Learning difficulties cannot always be cured and they are not very well understood. Alternately, it is theorized that they are the result of atypical mental configurations and it has been established that they are irrelevant to intelligence. Suggested causes of learning difficulties include genetics, environmental influences, and cerebral development.
There are a number of problems associated with learning difficulties and most of them are the result of a misunderstanding of the condition. Associations with other conditions and delays in diagnosis can create problems for families, learning institutions, and those with the learning difficulties.
There are those who disagree with the concept of learning difficulties, stating that it is a misnomer that suggests a problem in place of a difference. Such opponents include educators and child psychologists.
There are many tools for those with difficulties learning, primarily accommodating resources and alternative resources. Accommodating resources are learning materials that capitalize on strong points while targeting weak areas, while alternative resources are materials that have been converted into another medium that can be more easily consumed by those with learning difficulty.
Learning difficulties can be hard to identify, but there are symptoms that parents and educators can look for if they suspect their presence. If a learning difficulty is informally identified, then it is essential to refer to a specialist in order to make a formal diagnosis and seek pertinent treatment.
It is important to help those with learning difficulties. For those with such a condition, private tutoring could be extremely beneficial and may require no further supplementation. Another option is Individualized Education Programs (provided by the academic institution at which a student attends), but above all else, personal support and encouragement is paramount for the mental health, stability, and comfort of those who have a learning difficulty.
Learning difficulties are often identified in school age children. If a child is suspected to have a learning difficulty, he or she must be taken to a specialist immediately. Delays can result in undue stress and damaging consequences. Adults with learning difficulties must first seek a formal evaluation before any steps are made to correct the issue. Once a learning difficulty has been diagnosed, an adult should refer to an organization or institution (which can be found across the country) that can provide assistance. Often, these organizations that give access to programs that do not require scheduled attendance.
Parents with children who have learning difficulties as well as adults with learning difficulties should be aware of their rights and provisions granted by the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. These legislations ensure that no person with a learning difficulty can be discriminated and apply to both education and employment.
Learning difficulties are treatable. Most often, those with learning difficulties are expected to undergo special education in order to garner the aptitude they need for their personal endeavors.
Alternately, studies have been applied to the development of the neuroscience neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain’s abilities to alter neurological networks. As further advancements are made, the future for those with learning difficulties seems promising.