Learning Disabilities - Educational Implications

Because learning disabilities are manifested in a variety of behavior patterns, the Individual Education Program (IEP) must be designed carefully. A team approach is important for educating the child with a learning disability, beginning with the assessment process and continuing through the development of the IEP. Close collaboration among special class teachers, parents, resource room teachers, regular class teachers, and others will facilitate the overall development of a child with learning disabilities.

Some teachers report that the following strategies have been effective with some students who have learning disabilities:

Capitalize on the student's strengths;

Provide high structure and clear expectations;

Use short sentences and a simple vocabulary;

Provide opportunities for success in a supportive atmosphere to help build self-esteem;

Allow flexibility in classroom procedures (e.g., allowing the use of tape recorders for note-taking and test-taking when students have trouble with written language);

Make use of self-correcting materials, which provide immediate feedback without embarrassment;

Use computers for drill and practice and teaching word processing;

Provide positive reinforcement of appropriate social skills at school and home; and

Recognize that students with learning disabilities can greatly benefit from the gift of time to grow and mature.