Understanding Learning Disorders

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Assessment & Support for Learning Disorders | Raise the Bar Psychology
Understanding Learning Disorders | Raise The Bar Psychology

What are Learning Disorders?

Specific learning disorders (SLDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental conditions that affect a person’s ability to learn, understand, or use spoken language, written language, or mathematics. They can also interfere with higher-level skills such as attention, time management, long or short-term memory, and organisation. 

If not identified and accomodated for, students with learning disorders can underachieve compared to their potential.

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What are the Types of Learning Disorders?

There are three common types of learning disorders, namely Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyscalculia.

Dyslexia is the most common type of learning disorder that affects a person’s ability to read and spell. Individuals with dyslexia often struggle with phonological processing, making recognising and decoding words challenging. It interferes with reading fluency,  making it difficult to read quickly and efficiently, and has a negative flow-on effect to comprehending what is read. Spelling difficulties are also common in dyslexia.

Dysgraphia is a learning disorder characterised by difficulties in handwriting, spelling, and organising thoughts on paper. It can affect a person’s handwriting capabilities and fine motor skills. Individuals with dysgraphia may struggle with forming letters, spacing, writing within margins, and writing coherently, and they may find it challenging to express themselves through written communication.

Dyscalculia is a learning disorder involving difficulties with mathematical concepts, making it challenging for individuals to understand and manipulate numbers. It can affect tasks such as arithmetic, problem-solving, and understanding mathematical symbols. It impedes an individual’s ability to comprehend mathematical symbols, perform calculations and solve mathematical problems.
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Signs and Symptoms of Learning Disorders

Signs of learning disorders generally appear during school-age years. While symptoms can vary depending on the type of learning disorder and the age of the individual, some common symptoms across all types include

  • Difficulty learning new skills (this will be apparent despite practice)
  • Problems understanding and following instructions
  • Trouble remembering what someone just told them
  • Lower than expected levels of academic achievement
  • Problems staying organised

Children or adults with learning disorders may be reluctant to engage in academic tasks, leading to avoidance behaviours and frustration. They may experinece low self-esteem and feeling discouraged due to academic difficulties.

Other task-specific problems may include:

Individuals with dyslexia may exhibit persistent difficulties in reading, including slow and inaccurate reading, as well as challenges in understanding written text.

Dysgraphia may be indicated by messy or inconsistent handwriting, difficulties with spelling, and challenges in organising thoughts coherently in written form.

Dyscalculia can manifest as difficulties in understanding basic mathematical concepts, poor memory for maths facts, and challenges in solving mathematical problems.

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How to Support Students with Specific Learning Disorders

It’s important to note that students with specific learning disorders can still achieve success with the right support and accommodations. This involves creating supportive environments that cater to diverse learning needs and providing tailored interventions. Some strategies include:
 
  • Early identification and intervention: Recognising the signs of a learning disorder can help students receive appropriate support.
  • Individual education plans (IEPs): Creating tailored IEPs can address specific learning needs and provide accommodations.
  • Assistive technology: Using tools like text-to-speech software, speech-to-text software, or graphic organizers can help students overcome challenges.
  • Accommodations: Providing accommodations, such as extended time on tests or preferential seating, can help students succeed.
  • Positive reinforcement: Encouraging and praising students for their efforts can boost their confidence and motivation.
  • Collaboration between home and school: Schools and parents/caregivers working together can ensure consistent support and understanding.
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We're with you all the way

If you or your child experiences learning difficulties or have questions, our experienced team at Raise the Bar Psychology is here to help. We are here to help you unlock the potential for success and well-being in individuals with learning disorders. Contact us today if you have any questions or would like to request an assessment.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Learning Disorders

Yes, learning disorders can be diagnosed in adulthood. At Raise the Bar Psychology, our assessments cater to individuals of all ages.

The assessment process includes comprehensive evaluations of cognitive abilities, academic skills, and other relevant factors to determine the presence of a learning disorder.

While learning disorders are not “cured,” they can be effectively managed through tailored interventions, accommodations, and support.

Learning disorders can coexist with other conditions, such as ADHD , autism or language disorders. Our assessments consider a holistic approach to identify various factors influencing an individual’s learning profile.

Yes, accommodations, such as extra time during exams or the use of assistive technology, can be implemented to support individuals with learning disorders in academic settings.

No, learning disorders are not a form of intellectual disability. They are specific impairments in reading, writing, or maths that do not influence a person’s overall intelligence.

While there’s no cure for learning disorders, there are many strategies, interventions, and supports that can help individuals manage their difficulties and succeed academically and in life.

Yes, learning disorders are pretty common. In Australia, up to one in every ten school children aged 5-18 have a learning disorder. That’s 10% (or 380,000) school students. 1

Yes, a person can have more than one type of learning disorder. It’s also common for these conditions to co-occur with other issues, such as ADHD.

1   https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/disability/people-with-disability-in-australia/contents/education-and-skills/engagement-in-education

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