by Cynthia Albillar

Created on: May 27, 2007

I have a strong objection to the term Learning Disabled'. The implication that someone cannot learn is wrong on many levels. Challenging to Teach' is more appropriate. Everyone is capable of learning, but everyone learns in different ways. Sometimes reading the instructions is enough, for example:
"Fill in the blanks below."
Other times it may be necessary to read the instructions aloud as a prompt. Such as when helping with Algebra saying;

"If the signs are the same, you add."
And sometimes it will be necessary to physically demonstrate and vocally prompt. When teaching someone how to tie a square knot, you would need to do it fast to demonstrate the process. Then you would slow it down and vocalize the steps as you do it.
"Over, over, under. Then the other way; under, under, over and pull it tight."
Then you would have the student do it while you gave the vocal prompt.
In most instances, finding the combination that works for the individual is all that is needed for the student to learn.
One mistake that is often made is assuming that a student who is having difficulty with one area will have problems in all subjects. This is a huge mistake. A better course of action is to approach each subject with an open frame of mind. Every one has a talent. Find the area the student excels in and use it to raise the students self esteem. Offering an easy' subject after completing the difficult one will reinforce the satisfaction of a job well done and ease the strain caused by the difficult subject. Another possibility is to pair two students with differing talents to help each other. One who is good in math but has difficulty with reading could work with the student who is good in reading but has difficulty with math. This helps both of the students with both subjects and builds an awareness of self worth in the students as well.
Learning takes place through out life in all areas and by many methods. It should be a joyful experience not a chore or torment. Students should never be made to feel that there is something wrong with them when a subject is difficult. The subject should be approached from different angles and in different ways until the information clicks. It should be approached as a challenge or a puzzle. To a young child, learning is fun; strive to keep it that way

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