Page 49 - Part-A

Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties

Barriers

The self-confidence and personal development of people with SpLDs may be affected
by the challenges posed by their condition, and they may come to believe that they are
lazy, careless, or simply not trying hard enough.

Barriers to learning in an educational setting can often arise from an unsuitable
learning environment, inappropriate grouping of pupils, inflexible teaching styles or
lack of access to effective learning materials, as well as from the difficulty itself.

Children’s emotional and mental health needs may also have a significant impact
on their ability to make the most of the opportunities in school, as may their
family circumstances.

In some cases, difficulties with dyslexia can be caused as a result of a low level of
working memory. This can result in children:

• Working much more slowly than their peers

• Creating written work that is of much lower quality than their
verbal responses

• Being unable to remember numbers when doing mathematic calculations
• Being unable to remember their teacher’s instructions.

Even if an individual with an SpLD has managed well at school, it may be difficult
to make the transition to college or university. This is due to the increased pace
and demands of study and work, which can adversely affect confidence levels and
undermine self-esteem.

With the added pressure of university, students with an SpLD may struggle with
remembering deadlines, assignments or finding new locations on campus. It is not
uncommon for them to have difficulties with organisation and planning, and they may
find it hard to effectively manage their time.

In the workplace, a lack of awareness and understanding on the part of employers and
work colleagues can prevent an employee making any progress at work. They may be
incorrectly thought of as being awkward and difficult. They may appear to avoid work
and seem disaffected.

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