Numerous acronyms and words are used when discussing special education. SLD is one that you may have heard about. But what exactly does it mean? Specific Learning Disability (SLD) is a disability that limits a person’s capacity to learn and process particular types of information. It can affect a person’s reading, writing, and math skills, as well as their language comprehension and usage. If you want to read more about various disabilities, Understood.org is a reliable resource.
If you or someone you know has an SLD, you understand how difficult it may be. It can make education and everyday life difficult. The good news is that there are resources and support available to assist. This blog article will examine SLD and special education in further detail. We will investigate what it is, how it is diagnosed, and the types of available help and accommodations. We will also discuss the obstacles those with SLD face and how to overcome them. This post is for you if you are a parent, a teacher, or someone with an SLD. So let’s dive in!
The Definition of Specific Learning Disability
People may suffer from a specific learning impairment (SLD) if they have trouble grasping or remembering specific knowledge. An imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell, or do mathematical calculations are all symptoms of a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using language, spoken or written, as defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Learning difficulties primarily due to visual, auditory, or motor impairments; mental retardation; emotional disturbance; or environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage are not included in the definition of a Specific Learning Disability.
Impairments in reading, writing, mathematics, or even just understanding and using language are all possible manifestations of SLD. These challenges may severely hinder a person’s capacity to study and perform in the classroom or in daily life.
In addition, it’s essential to recognize that SLD is not a single diagnosis but rather a group of illnesses comprising a wide range of conditions manifesting themselves in different facets of the learning process, such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, etc. Dyslexia Foundation provides a deeper understanding of one such condition.
A disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or in using language, spoken or written, manifesting in an imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell, or do mathematical calculations is the definition of Specific Learning Disability (SLD), a type of disability that affects a person’s learning and processing of certain types of information. It’s not just one disorder; it’s a group comprising a wide range of conditions like dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and others.
What Is SLD in Special Education?
Specific Learning Disability (SLD) is a term used in special education to describe conditions that impact a student’s capacity to learn and process particular types of information. Autism is one of the thirteen disability categories recognized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
A student with SLD may struggle with reading, writing, mathematics, and even language comprehension and use. These challenges can substantially impact students’ capacity to learn and function in school and daily life. You should know the specific learning disability eligibility checklist.
When a student is diagnosed with SLD, the school will evaluate them to establish their unique areas of difficulty and strengths. The school will next design the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) based on the results of the evaluations. The IEP will detail the student’s needs and goals and the special education and services that will be given to satisfy those needs. Additionally, the school will provide adjustments and accommodations to help the kid access the curriculum and achieve in class. Read below the SLD examples.
The purpose of special education services for students with SLD is to assist them in overcoming their learning obstacles and achieving their full academic and personal potential. You should know the specific learning disability definition.
Specific Learning Disability (SLD) in special education describes a category of disorders affecting a student’s ability to learn and process certain information. It’s one of the 13 categories of disability recognized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). When a student is identified with SLD, the school will conduct evaluations to determine the student’s specific areas of difficulty and strengths. Then, based on these results, the school will develop an individualized education program. Now, you know the SLD definition.
Examples of SLD That Are Recognized in Special Education
A student’s capacity to absorb and process particular kinds of information may be impaired by a disorder known as a specific learning disability (SLD). Some certain learning disabilities that are widely acknowledged in special education include as follows:
- Dyslexia: Dyslexia is a reading and spelling condition that makes it difficult for a pupil to learn these skills.
- Dyscalculia: Dyscalculia is a learning disability that hinders a person’s proficiency in mathematics.
- Dysgraphia: The inability to write clearly and coherently is a symptom of dysgraphia, which affects some students.
- Auditory Processing Disorder (APD): Students with auditory processing disorder (APD) have trouble remembering and making sense of what they hear.
- Visual Processing Disorder (VPD): A kid with visual processing disorder (VPD) struggles to understand visual information.
- Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD): A learner with NVLD has trouble processing and using nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, body language, and spatial relationships.
- Language Processing Disorder (LPD): Students with language processing disorder (LPD) have difficulty decoding and comprehending written or verbal language.
- ADHD: Disorders of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are all hallmarks of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental condition. SLD is linked to difficulties in reading and writing.
It should be noted that these are only a few of the varieties of SLD that might negatively impact a student’s ability to study. In addition, students with SLD may struggle in multiple academic areas.
Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), Visual Processing Disorder (VPD), Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD), Language Processing Disorder (LPD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are all examples of Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) in special education.
What Does SLD Look Like in the Classroom?
Students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) may exhibit various symptoms and difficulties in the classroom, which can affect their learning and performance. Here are some instances of how SLD may manifest itself in the school:
- Difficulty with reading: Students with SLD may have trouble decoding words, identifying familiar terms, and comprehending the content of what they read. Additionally, they may struggle with fluency, accuracy, and comprehension.
- Difficulty with writing: Students with SLD may experience trouble with handwriting, spelling, grammar, and organizing their thoughts in writing. Additionally, they may struggle with writing language and successfully communicating their views.
- Difficulty with math: Students with SLD may struggle with elementary arithmetic concepts, doing computations, and understanding mathematical reasoning. They may also work with problem-solving and applying mathematical concepts in the real world.
- Difficulty with language: Students with SLD may have trouble comprehending and utilizing both spoken and written language. They may struggle with vocabulary, grammar, and figurative language comprehension.
- Difficulty with attention and focus: Students with SLD may struggle to remain on task, follow directions, and complete assignments. Additionally, they may work with time management and organizing.
- Difficulty with memory: Students with SLD may struggle with short- and long-term memory and retaining and retrieving information.
- Difficulty with social interactions: Students with SLD may struggle to comprehend social cues, make friends, and communicate effectively.
It is crucial to remember that these are only a few examples and that the specific symptoms of SLD may vary based on the student’s SLD type. You should know the OHI special education.
In summary, in the classroom, individuals with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) may exhibit various symptoms and challenges that might affect their learning and performance, such as trouble with reading, writing, mathematics, language, attention, focus, memory, and social interactions.
These symptoms can differ depending on the type of SLD the kid has. It is also important to note that students with SLD may not have issues in all of these areas but simply in one or a few. Additionally, students with SLD may have abilities and talents in other locations, and recognizing and capitalizing on them is essential.
About Us:
Jennifer Hanson is a dedicated and seasoned writer specializing in the field of special education. With a passion for advocating for the rights and needs of children with diverse learning abilities, Jennifer uses her pen to educate, inspire, and empower both educators and parents alike.