Definition: Specific learning disabilities are a group of disabilities in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) The IDEA defines specific learning disabilities as a group of disorders in one or more of these areas of learning:
- Learning disabilities of expressive language, also called oral expression;
- Learning disabilities of receptive language, also called listening comprehension;
- Learning disabilities of basic writing mechanics;
- Learning disabilities of written expression;
- Learning disabilities of basic reading decoding
- Learning disabilities of reading comprehension;
- Learning disabilities of basic math calculation skills; and
- Learning disabilities of applied math and problem solving.
Learning disabilities may also involve disorders or syndromes such as developmental aphasia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or Tourette's syndrome.
Specific learning disabilities are not typically diagnosed when other primary disabling conditions such as visual impairments, hearing impairments, motor disabilities, mental retardation, or emotional disturbances are present. Further, students whose academic weaknesses are caused by environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage are not typically diagnosed with learning disabilities unless there is evidence the disability is not related to these factors and the child has received appropriate educational intervention.
Also Known As: Specific learning disabilities may also be called learning disorders, learning disability without the word specific, dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia.
Examples:
Specific learning disabilities are a category of disabilities defined by the IDEA.
