Learning
What are Learning Disabilities?
Learning disabilities are due to genetic and/or neurobiological factors that alter brain functioning in a manner which affects one or more cognitive processes related to learning. These processing problems can interfere with learning basic skills such as reading, writing and/or math. They can also interfere with higher level skills such as organization, time planning, abstract reasoning, long or short term memory and attention. 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. Learning disabilities should not be confused with learning problems which are primarily the result of visual, hearing, or motor handicaps; of intellectual disability; of emotional regulation; or of environmental, cultural or economic disadvantages.
Learning Disabilities may be classified as a Specific Leaning Disability or Other Health Impairment.
Dyslexia. Click to link for Dyslexia page.
Dyscalculia. Math learning disability that makes learning and comprehending arithmetic, such as difficulty in understanding numbers, learning how to manipulate numbers, performing mathematical calculations and learning math facts. It is general seen as mathematical equivalent to dyslexia.
Dysgraphia. Neurological disorder characterized by writing disabilities.
Non-Verbal Learning Disorder. People with Non-Verbal Learning Disability (NVLD) struggle with a range of conditions that include social and spatial disabilities. Often they are marginalized and isolated; consequently, they can experience social barriers throughout their lives. Individuals with NVLD often have trouble with some of the following: organization, attention, executive functioning, nonverbal communication, and motor skills.
Audio and Visual Processing Disorders. An auditory processing disorder interferes with an individual's ability to analyze or make sense of information taken in through the ears. This is different from problems involving hearing per se, such as deafness or being hard of hearing. Difficulties with auditory processing do not affect what is heard by the ear, but do affect how this information is interpreted, or processed by the brain.
An auditory processing deficit can interfere directly with speech and language, but can affect all areas of learning, especially reading and spelling. When instruction in school relies primarily on spoken language, the individual with an auditory processing disorder may have serious difficulty understanding the lesson or the directions.
A visual processing, or perceptual, disorder refers to a hindered ability to make sense of information taken in through the eyes. This is different from problems involving sight or sharpness of vision. Difficulties with visual processing affect how visual information is interpreted, or processed by the brain.
http://www.ldonline.org/article/6390
LDANJ is the state affiliate of Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDAA). LDANJ is a nonprofit organization of volunteers dedicated to providing information, support, and advocacy for children and adults with learning disabilities. Our members include individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and the professionals who serve them.
Learning Disability Association’s mission is to create opportunities for success for all individuals affected by learning disabilities through support, education, and advocacy. LDA formed in 1964. https://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/
Potential Indicators of LD by National Science Teaching Association