Approximately one in seven Americans has some type of learning disability, such as dyslexia (a reading disability).
A learning disability is a neurological disorder that typically runs in families. People with learning disabilities may have difficulty reading, writing, spelling, reasoning, recalling and/or organizing information, if left to figure things out by themselves or if taught in conventional ways.
Testing for Dyslexia / Reading Disability
Learning disability testing is the best way to obtain valuable information when a student is struggling with school or performing below her potential. These educational evaluations not only identify the areas a student is struggling with but also uncover areas of strength. Specific recommendations guide the process of developing the student’s IEP (Individualized Education Plan) or 504 Plan to reduce frustration and ensure academic success.
What are some signs of a reading or other learning disability?
- doing poorly on tests or having trouble finishing tests on time
- difficulty rhyming words
- trouble learning numbers, alphabet, days of the week, colors, shapes, time
- slow to learn the connection between letters and sounds
- confuses basic words (run, eat, want)
- makes consistent reading and spelling errors
- transposes number sequences and confuses arithmetic signs
- slow to remember facts and learn new skills, relies heavily on memorization
- unstable pencil grip, difficulty with handwriting
- reverses letter sequences (soiled/solid, left/felt)
- slow to learn prefixes, suffixes, root words, and other spelling strategies
- trouble with word problems
College Students and Dyslexia Testing / Learning Disability Evaluations
Educational testing is necessary for college students who are struggling academically and may be dealing with undiagnosed learning disabilities. Often, learning disability evaluations can help students get accommodations for college entrance exams (such as the ACT or SAT). In addition, many students entering college will benefit from an updated educational evaluation to request accommodations for college courses.
Adult students often require thorough testing to support the need for accommodations for exams related to graduate school (e.g. GRE, MCAT, GMAT, LSAT) and for licensing exams (e.g. medical board exams, bar exams, etc.). These evaluations must meet specific criteria outlined by the schools or licensing boards to qualify for accommodations.
A learning disability is a lifelong condition, but with support and effective intervention, individuals with learning disabilities can be successful in school and in careers later in life. Getting a thorough learning disability evaluation is the most critical first step toward tackling academic issues and moving forward in school.