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Identifying learning disabilities
Learning disabilities is a general term that refers to a heterogeneous group of disorders characterised by significant difficulties in the acquisition and use of listening, speaking, reading, writing, reasoning, or mathematical abilities.
The majority of cases result from inefficiencies in phonological processing in the brain and are presumed to be neurologically based.
There may be an indication of learning disabilities if a student demonstrates some of the following characteristics:
- has difficulty telling left from right
- has difficulty following instructions, or reading and listening at the same time
- finds filling out forms unusually difficult and confusing
- mixes up the numbers when dialling on the telephone
- mixes up dates and times and misses appointments
- has a low reading age compared to chronological age and ability
- spells poorly and reads slowly.
Identifying learning difficulties screening and referral guidelines 
is a set of guidelines and a checklist on the Opening All Options site. The checklist is designed for Disability Liaison Officers, and should be seen as a guide only.
The best way to find out if someone has a learning disability is to measure these inefficiencies using standardised tests. These tests are administered by a licensed psychologist or neuro-psychologist with a background in working with people who have learning disabilities. They will ask questions about the individual's developmental and educational history and also observe them completing reading, mathematical and writing tasks.
A common terms that describe specific types of learning disabilities is Dyslexia which results in the inefficient processing of written language (reading, spelling and writing.) In the UK, the term 'dyslexia' is used to describe learning disabilities generally.
Check the Glossary of terms for more information on types of learning disabilities.
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