Knowledge
Inclusive learning: Understanding Learning Disability
Applying different teaching methodologies using the structured multi-sensory approach will make a significant difference
“I like to think I have a superpower called dyslexia. I am creative, intuitive, and empathetic. I am great with problem-solving, and I can think outside the box.” ― Lorin Morgan-Richards
Beginning on the note of the aforementioned quote, written by a person with a different learning style, thinking in this way will help you understand the learning disability in a better way. A child is creative in many ways and has normal intelligence and still, the teacher is highlighting him/her as a student who is lagging behind in studies and with a laid-back attitude.
If one goes in depth of knowing children with Learning difficulties, he/she will come to know that learning disabilities are nothing but different learning styles with a different pedagogy to learn.
A learning disability may affect children’s specific language-reading, writing, and spelling abilities and sometimes calculation and Math concepts are also difficult for them to achieve at a normal pace. Children with dysgraphia and dyspraxia might show difficulty in writing legibly or learning and executing motor planning activities.
It is not a disease or disability that cannot be overcome but the information processing in the brain is done in a different way in people with a specific learning disability, which leads to these reflections in their performance especially related to specific academic areas, planning, and execution difficulties.
Knowing the ways to work with them by making a strong personal and emotional bond, which will help in improving their self-confidence and self-esteem along with their performance in academic achievements.
Applying different teaching methodologies using the structured multi-sensory approach with some modifications in volume, complexity, and expectation at their level and at their pace will make a significant difference in their improvement and positive progression. A child with learning difficulties will always look forward to your support, when you approach them with a positive remark, it may be a simple star or a simple wow or Well done!
Positive reinforcements and emotional bonds help them to take the first step in their progress and performance. Working with children with learning disabilities is not a difficult task, the only thing that one needs to discover is finding their strengths and knowing the areas to be worked upon along with the learning style that their unique style of learning.
Each one can teach them. The only need is to understand them and go according to their style of learning with patience and positivism. Believe me, they will never disappoint you and the only thing that bothers them are black and white lines which is very much part of the school academic curriculum so just pick up colorful pens and highlight those black and white words in beautiful color codes and keep on working with them with your heart and soul. One day you will see them improving and doing wonders in their life as per their strengths and you will be proud of them.
Your commitment and compassion towards them will fill their hearts with the light of growth and give them confidence forever.
Author – Anju Saxena, ALS- Coordinator, Prometheus -IB Continuum School, Noida