Finding Answers About Learning Disability

James J. De Santis, Ph.D.
138 North Brand Boulevard, Suite 300
Glendale, California 91203-4618
TEL (818) 551-1714

Finding Answers About Learning Disability
by James J. De Santis, Ph.D.

What is a Learning Disability?

Recognize any of these remarks?

"He's failing in math, but I know he could do better."
"She never follows directions--she just won't pay attention."
"He's a slow learner. I hope he'll outgrow it."

Few of us are straight-A students in school; however, some of us experience challenges in school more than most do. One possible reason for school failure is a specific learning disability. A student may be bright, cooperative, and able to concentrate, yet struggle with the essential tasks of learning.

Learning disabilities affect about 5% of school-aged children. Problems usually tend to be evident by second or third grade. Not much is yet known about the exact cause of learning disabilities. It may have a neurological basis. Some evidence suggests a genetic contribution; it seems to run in families. Environmental factors are sometimes implicated, such as pregnancy and birth complications, or infections and high fevers.

A number of cognitive abilities each contribute to our ability to learn, including memory, visual and auditory processing, processing speed, comprehension, and abstract reasoning. If any of these functions are impaired, they can interfere with one's ability to process information effectively.

Learning disability literally means "unable to learn." A learning disability can interfere with attainment of maximum academic potential. Over time, learning disabilities can begin to produce frustration and stress, foster a negative attitude toward learning, and adversely affect optimal social adjustment at school as well.

When to Seek an Evaluation

Difficulties with academic performance in school may suggest a need to consider assessment. Testing can be a valuable tool to advocate for and obtain needed services.

A number of warning signs may indicate the need to consider evaluation:

Difficulty recalling facts or instructions
Difficulty understanding or following instructions
Loses or misplaces homework or textbooks
Difficulty distinguishing right from left
Letter or number reversals or sequencing errors
Difficulty detecting differences in similar sounds
Word-finding difficulty
Many reading errors
Doesn't seem to comprehend what is read
Can't organize thoughts on paper
Confuses columns when doing math problems
Trouble understanding math concepts
Doesn't seem to learn from mistakes
Failing in several academic subjects

What Does a Good Evaluation Customarily Include?

Learning disabilities should be diagnosed only by a qualified professional. An in-depth investigation is generally necessary to obtain an accurate diagnosis; no single interview or test will conclusively diagnose a learning disability.

A thorough evaluation usually will begin with an initial consultation to discuss your concerns, to collect a developmental history, and to review school grades and narratives, samples of classroom work, and any prior testing. The evaluator may consult with a referring teacher or physician or may observe the school environment as well.

Once relevant information has been collected and reviewed, the evaluator will customize and administer a battery of tests tailored to address the problem efficiently and comprehensively. The specific tests chosen may vary but generally will include a test of general intelligence, tests of specific cognitive functions, and tests of academic achievement. Such tests may involve answering oral questions, writing with pencil and paper, identifying pictures or symbols, and manipulating blocks or puzzles.

Testing yields a pattern of scores which the evaluator then uses to identify strengths and weaknesses in the child. The evaluator begins to consider a diagnosis of learning disability if demonstrated academic achievement is significantly below predicted intellectual potential.

Comprehensive evaluation should rule out other relevant difficulties that can mimic or complicate a learning disability, such as anxiety or depression, memory impairment, understimulating or disorganized environments, attention deficit, behavior or motivational problems, sensory problems like a vision or hearing loss, intellectual impairment, and brain trauma.

Once all assessment procedures are completed, the evaluator explains the results and conclusions in clear and understandable language. At your discretion, the evaluator can provide feedback to the referring physician or school. The evaluator may meet with school personnel to explain findings to faculty or to assist in the development of an educational plan.

When a written report is requested, a good report is not complete without a summary of relevant history, description of test findings, a diagnosis, and a plan for addressing the identified problem.

Advantages of Private Evaluation

When evaluation is done privately, you have control. You have control of the quality of the evaluation. A private assessment is essentially an independent appraisal. You can personally select an evaluator based on professional education, training, and experience. Evaluation can be comprehensive in scope and include consideration of other significant possible contributing factors such as attention, memory, or emotional functioning.

The final report may have a significant impact on a person's life, and so you will have control of disclosure and distribution of the results when testing is done privately. You can obtain a re-evaluation easily and as needed to assess the effectiveness of interventions provided by teachers, tutors, and resource specialists.

How is a Learning Disability Remediated?

Although no permanent "cure" has yet been found for learning disability, it is definitely treatable. When not treated early, skills not acquired in early grades can affect performance in later grades. A comprehensive plan for educational remediation and treatment may include a number of recommendations to maximize a student's learning potential, such as:

Specialized teaching methods and materials
Environmental classroom modifications
Training in strategies of observation and analysis
Coaching in self-monitoring techniques
Tutoring
Specialized school placement
Psychological counseling
Assertiveness training
Encouragement of peer socialization
Family education about learning disabilities
Support and advocacy organizations