Learning Disabilities

The term learning disability is commonly used to describe individuals who experience difficulties in learning. In 2014 -15, the number of children and youth ages 3 -21 receiving special education services was 6.6 million, or 13% of all U. S. public school students. Specific terms are used for different types of learning disabilities. Dyslexia is a language-based disability affecting reading, writing, and spelling skills. A disability affecting handwriting skills is termed dysgraphia. Dyscalculia is a disability affecting math concepts and problem-solving skills.

Terms used for different types of learning disabilities seem distinct, but individuals can have more than one type of learning disability. Researchers have reported that high co-occurrence rates are due to sharing a common disability base; co-occurrence [Page 1261]of dyslexia and dysgraphia is related ...