Students with learning disabilities such as dyslexia or ADHD require extra attention and support in in-class activities. Teachers’ support is essential in fostering their academic performance and developing social skills.
In most cases, students with learning disabilities have normal intelligence. But they may experience difficulties developing skills in writing, reading, or mathematics. Some students may struggle to understand certain content taught in class, which can result in delayed completion of classwork or homework. And for some students, a learning disability is a huge hurdle; only teachers can help them learn better. Teachers can help students with learning disabilities through various strategies such as guidance and support, personalised learning, peer-to-peer education, promoting cultural awareness, introducing a new curriculum, and more.
A proper teaching strategy can boost confidence and develop interest in students with learning disabilities, as well as the confidence to participate in social activities. This will increase their academic performance and help them to communicate with others effectively. It also reduces stress and anxiety, which allows them to develop positive behaviours. Read more to understand learning disabilities in students and how teachers can help them in class.
What are Learning Disabilities?
Learning disabilities (or disorders) are umbrella terms used to describe various learning problems, such as dyslexia, ADHD, dyscalculia, or dysgraphia. Many people believe students with learning disabilities have low intelligence, diligence, or motivation. Instead, students with learning disabilities have intelligence like every other student. But they have some difficulties that make it hard to understand the information taught in class.
The Symptoms and Signs of Learning Disabilities in Students
Generally, every student experiences difficulty with homework at some point, but consistent difficulties in learning can be a sign of learning disabilities. Difficulties in writing and reading aloud, slowed reading, trouble following directions, problems understanding what was just read, or problematic calculations are some key symptoms of learning disabilities in students.
Ways Teachers Can Help Students with Learning Disabilities
There is no complete cure for learning disabilities in students. However, teachers can help mitigate these issues that affect students’ academic performance. Teachers can use many methods, such as using sensory aids or allowing extra time for class work, to help students with learning disabilities. Here, we share ways that teachers can implement such methods to ensure that no students feel left out.
1. Visual Representation
Teachers can use e-learning platforms to engage students in learning processes. Computers and digital elements can be used to maximise the content student learning retention. It also increases concentration and focus. This is because visual interaction contains interactive and fun learning approaches, which improve brain stimulation.
2. Self-Awareness
Self-awareness is crucial for children with disabilities; children must have self-confidence and self-awareness about their limits. Learning disabilities in students can cause doubt about their abilities, making it difficult for them to socialise with others. So, it is necessary for teachers to encourage students to develop their capabilities and talk with others about their challenges. Teachers can also help them build strength and passion.
3. Assistive Technology
It is an incredible way to promote education to children with learning disabilities. It includes the use of technology and digital gadgets. Students can understand the concepts more easily by using supportive tools and devices. Through assistive technology, children with disabilities can perform well in their academics and help in socialising them.
4. Peer Tutoring
Peer tutoring is a way of teaching students with the help of other students. It includes collaborative learning methods and allows students to support each other’s studies. Students with disabilities also receive sympathy and encouragement from their peers. This will help in the development of social skills and confidence among such students.
5. Break Down Lesson
Breaking down the larger concepts into smaller parts can help students with disabilities understand the lessons more effectively. Teachers use these teaching methods to encourage students to become independent learners and understand complex concepts more easily through fun learning approaches.
6. Multisensory Instruction
It involves the use of multiple senses to improve the learning process of students with physical challenges. Teachers can use various strategies such as visual aids, verbal instruction, manipulatives, and digital literacy.
This method helps students increase cognitive and retention skills. Children with disabilities can understand concepts according to their learning style.
7. Differentiated Instruction
It is a practice of adjusting instruction to meet each student’s unique needs, tailored to their learning style. Teachers can use this method to give instructions to physically challenged students. These instructions suit their learning preferences, pace and level. It helps students to engage with others and develop strong problem-solving skills.
8. Provide Feedback and Support
Feedback and support are essential to know about the performance of students. Students with learning disabilities require detailed support and guidance. With the help of feedback, teachers can identify their weaknesses and make progress. It also helps students work according to their thinking processes and learning styles.
9. Reduce the Writing Process
It is essential to use a less writing-intensive process and a more verbal approach to conveying lessons to students with disabilities. Teachers can provide students with preprinted class notes or copy notes for students.
It will help them learn concepts more easily and save their time. So, they can manage the class’s pace.
10. Use Tape Recorder/Voice Recorder
Teachers can use tape or voice recorders to provide recorded lectures to students with learning or physical disabilities. Students with physical disabilities have problems in learning and writing, so they can’t keep up with the class speed. Recorded lectures can help students
to learn without any hindrances.
11. Give Extra Time
Teachers can give extra time to students with disabilities to complete a task or assignment. Students who are physically challenged or have dyslexia or autism have difficulties in the reading and writing process, which takes time. Giving extra time to such students will help to complete their assignments, tests and tasks. It also helps to build confidence and grasp concepts more easily.
12. Develop an Inclusive Learning Environment
Teachers can promote an inclusive learning environment in classes for effective and equal learning opportunities for every student. It helps develop students’ mental health. Inclusive education also helps in developing a positive learning environment.
Students with learning disabilities need more kindness and support from their teachers. Charismatic Care can provide kind, compassionate, and skilled support for children with autism and learning disabilities. Based at The Old Courthouse, Orsett Road, UK, our educational approach focuses on fostering confidence, independence, and academic success in a supportive environment. They can help your child learn effectively with various methods such as assigning them in-class support, using visual representations, or lesson breakdown. Charismatic Care believes every child deserves the opportunity to achieve their full potential, regardless of ability.
Please feel free to contact us by phone or through our contact form. We are happy to hear from you. If you require any additional information, our friendly team will be glad to assist you.