What is a learning disability?
Learning disabilities have nothing to do with intelligence. A learning disability (LD) is a neurological disorder, which means there’s a difference in the way the brain is wired, or how the person thinks. There is no cure for an LD; it is lifelong – but support and intervention can help an individual find coping skills and tools to help them succeed academically. An LD can mean difficulty with writing, reading, spelling, reasoning, recall, or organization.
Common LDs include:
- Dyslexia
- Dyscalculia
- Dysgraphia
- Auditory or visual processing disorders
- Nonverbal learning disabilities
These are different from attention disorders like ADD or other disabilities like autism, behavioral disorders, blindness, or deafness/being hard of hearing. While some other disabilities or disorders are related (like ADD or dyspraxia), they are not specific LDs.
We're going to discuss these LDs more in depth in subsequent blog posts, as well as how they can affect your graduate school career and accommodations that might be helpful.
Resources for learning disabilities
Learning Disabilities Association of America
Higher Education Consortium for Special Education
The Advocacy Institute
National Center for Learning Disabilities
Here at Dissertation Editor, we know that people learn in different ways, and if you’re diagnosed with a learning disability, our team of professional editors and statisticians are aware and sensitive to your varied needs. We can work with you to figure out what best suits your learning style, and help you reach your goals. Contact us today to learn more! < Benefits of Dissertation Coaching October is National Book Month! >
