Understanding Learning Differences
Specific Learning Differences
Specific learning differences is an umbrella term that covers a range of challenges people face in learning. These include common ones such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia and dyspraxia and are the most common ones we come across.
Specific learning differences are often identified when a person excels in some areas but struggles significantly in others. For example:
- They may be great at storytelling but struggle to write it down.
- They may find reading difficult but excel at maths problem-solving.
These challenges can lead to anxiety and low self esteem related to their learning experiences. Specific learning differences are on a spectrum, ranging from mild to severe, and are often hereditary. Additionally, they can co-exist; for example, someone may have both dyslexia and dyscalculia. Having a specific learning difference is not an indication of lower intelligence - it’s simply a different way of thinking and processing.
Processing Disorders
Processing disorders affect how a person takes in, interprets, and responds to information. These disorders can impact different types of processing, including:
- Visually Based: For example, visual stress or Irlen Syndrome
- Auditory Based: Such as (Auditory Processing Disorder)
- Processing Speed: Challenges in overall speed when taking in or responding to information.
Processing disorders can vary in severity and may overlap with specific learning differences, adding to the complexity of how individuals experience and respond to the world around them.