Working with Learning Disabilities

When a student has a problem processing or perceiving information because of some sort of learning interference we say that that person has a learning disability.  The student with the disability can be your best resource because the chances are he/she has been taught learning strategies that compensate for the interference.  When dealing with writing, 

A visual learner can work from written material, draw out ideas, create collages to plan papers, and write down key points to retain ideas. 

An auditory learner can read instructions and papers aloud and read into a tape recorder. In conference with these students, have them point out on the paper or in the text what you are discussing with them.

Students who benefit from movement can underline or highlight notes, and outline physically by using post-it notes. 

 

Ryan, Leigh. The Bedford Guide for Writing Tutors. Boston: Bedford Books (St. Martin's Press), 1994.

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