2. 1.How do we identify children with learning disabilities? We identify children with learning disabilities in various ways. Children who suffer from learning disabilties tend to find school to be difficult and frustrating. These students usually need additional support at school in order to learn the same material as children without learning disabilities do. There are all sorts of disabilities which aide in the gaining and processing information at school. Some kids have trouble with reading, spelling, writing, math, specific academic areas. A definition of learning disabilities according to the text is “despite average or above average intelligence, seemed to be encountering problems with school.”(Colemen, Boysse,and Neitzel,2006) 2. Describe how the Information Processing Model is used to show the impact a learning disability can have on learning. There are four major components of the information processing model; input, processing, output, and executive function. According to the text “Each component carries out an important function related to learning, and optimum learning takes place when the components function smoothly as one system.” This model shows how learning disability can affect learning. The components of the IPM act as a puzzle. If all the pieces are put together a full image is created. If a few pieces or even one piece are missing, the puzzle is incomplete.
3. 3. Is there one known primary cause of learning disabilities? There is no one known primary cause of learning disabilties, but the most commonly accepted cause is a problem which related how individuals process information at the neurological level. Each student with learning disabilities has his or her own set of strengths and challenges. 4. Define sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory. How does each affects a student with learning disabilities? Sensory memory enables us to hold large amounts of information for a very short period of time of 2 to 3 seconds. Short term memory helps us to remember directions and steps for solving math problems while at the same time doing calculations. Long term memory enables us to store information that we have made our own for use in the future. The use of thinking directly relates to a child's memory. They use prior knowledge and knew information to create their own understandings. Without a strong memory school can be a difficult place.
4. Moral Dilemma In order to get the point across to the rest of my classroom, they need to understand the challenges Kevin faces on a daily basis. In order for the children to understand the challenges he faces I would have them journal about how they would feel if they were placed in Kevin's shoes. I would ask if they would feel the same as they do know if they suffered from a learning disability. My personal beliefs on this issue is that learning should be a privilege given to anyone. Every student deserves a fair shot at gaining an education and even if they have a learning disability, all needs should be meet for everyone in the classroom. I feel my beliefs will help provide each of my students with a fair and equal chance at success and their abilities should be challenged, guided and strengthened everyday. I believe “fair” means in and educational context that every child's needs are met and challenged on a day to day basis. Whatever challenges/ disabilities they may have, they should each be given an opportunity for success.
