Page 43 - Part-A

Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties

Internal and external factors that may affect an individual
with Specific Learning Difficulties

There are a number of factors that affect individuals with SpLDs and have an impact,
either positively or negatively, on their ability to achieve in their lives.

These can be internal or external factors.

Internal factors include the person’s level of resilience, the amount of self-confidence
they may have, and any coping strategies developed over the years.

Students with SpLDs entering university may need to develop some alternative
approaches to their learning and may well already have begun to do this without
realising it. University can be demanding for students in terms of writing essays,
planning work, attending lectures and making notes. It is easy to fall behind due to
the unaccustomed volume of work, along with exams and revision, all of which can
be stressful and daunting. It is therefore important that individuals with SpLDs take
advantage of the wide range of support and guidance that is provided at university, as
this ensures that they are receiving an accessible and equal learning experience.

External factors include the level and type of support the individual has from family
members, school or college staff, and professionals. Other external factors include the
individual’s ability to access additional resources, the age at which they were originally
diagnosed, and negative attitude of others, including bullying and transitional periods
(ie. moving from primary to secondary school or from secondary school to college or
work) when the individual may require additional support.

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