Learning difficulties are also known as learning disabilities, which involve various disorders that affect the manner in which an individual processes information. Such learning difficulties can appear in one of several ways, including difficulties with reading, writing, and arithmetic. “Learning difficulties” is another term used commonly in education to describe learning challenges a student may experience regarding the speed or amount of knowledge acquired compared to their peers of the same age.
Definition and Types of Learning Difficulties
Learning disabilities constitute one concrete example of an identified abnormality in the potential of an individual when contrasted with performance achieved in school. It does not mean lack of intelligence, since most of the time, people who have a learning difficulty possess average intelligence or better without ability to perform certain learning tasks:
Dyslexia: pertaining to reading fluency, comprehension, and spelling.
Dysgraphia: referring to problems associated with handwriting and written language.
Dyscalculia: is a disorder on the individual with difficulty understanding numbers and performing mathematical calculations.
These conditions are specific learning disorders according to the DSM-5.
Causes of Learning Disabilities
Learning disability has complex causes which can be explained through genetic factors, neurological differences, and environmental factors. These disorders have been established to be present in an individual; this occurs as a result of a dysfunction of the central nervous system, and not as a result of the lack of instructions or socio-economic status 34. Knowledge of the cause is significant in formulating strategies on how to conquer learning disability.
Strategies for Conquering Learning Disability
Learning difficulties are required to be approached in a differential manner to meet the needs of the individual. Ways to overcome learning difficulties:
Early Intervention: This would be identifying learning difficulties early enough so that it may be addressed immediately with support and interventions. Screening processes should be implemented by schools to detect the issues as soon as possible.
Individualized Education Plans: An IEP can offer a framework to accommodate student needs with a structure on how it will be done. For instance, there is special teaching, more time to finish assignments, and special use of technology.
Multisensory Instruction: Using more than one sense in the process of learning will allow better retention and understanding of what is being taught. Techniques of using visual aids, doing, and hearing materials can enable diverse learning styles.
Assisted Technology: Alternative methods, for instance, speech-to-text can be applied with audio books or other educational application software, so learning does not have to be achieved just by reading and writing.
Practice Skills Building: Foundational skills are worked on by setting targeted exercises for areas that will benefit the most from improvement. Such as doing phonics to help in dyslexia or manipulatives in case of dyscalculia, which reinforce learning.
Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding small achievements motivates people to overcome difficulties. It fosters a growth mindset and resilience in them.
Working with Professionals: Educators, psychologists, and special education experts are all involved to ensure the proper support is provided according to the individual’s requirements.
The Role of Support Systems
Support systems are very important in enabling the learning student to maneuver through their learning difficulties. Parents, teachers, and friends may contribute to making learning easier by being understanding and patient. Open communication regarding what is being faced may create an opportunity for collaborative solutions toward improvement of the educational experience.
Learning difficulties are complex, as proper management is needed in order to acquire them comprehensively. Appropriate devised strategies may overcome the learning difficulty and bring effective management of them for acquiring academic and quality improvement of living. The necessary approaches are early identification, planning individualized supports, multisensory instructional methods, assistive technology access, skill-building activities, reinforcement, and consultation and support from professionals.
That the learning difficulties of a child do not indicate his potential is important, but in fact, learning difficulties make him unique with challenges to be met. With suitable strategies and support systems, students with learning difficulties can truly thrive academically and beyond.
