LD with an Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia)

Math 

Math is complex. A student may be successful in one math class and not in another. Why? One reason is because different types of math require different skills and utilize different brain areas​. Another reason is that a student's performance on a math test may vary depending on the format of the test​. In addition, the methods of teaching and the materials and resources available to the student also influence student success. 

Learning math requires "number sense Links to an external site." which is a basic ability to understand numbers. This includes understanding of quantity (more or less), sequence (counting in order), volume (full or empty), and the meaning of basic mathematical ideas (e.g., subtracting or taking away an object means less). Research shows that we are born with a predisposition to learn these ideas and that our understanding grows with experience over time. 

Reading math includes reading English (or the written language of instruction) and reading the language of math which includes numbers and symbols. Math involves abstract thinking, particularly in the areas of algebra and calculus which rely on the symbolic representation of mathematical operators and undefined or variable numbers. Visual spatial skills are also important for math, particularly in the areas of geometry and statistics where shapes, angles, graphs, and charts are often needed. 

 

Learning Disability in Mathematics (Dyscalculia)

A diagnosis of Specific Learning Disorder, with impairment in Mathematics requires:

  • Significant difficulties in number sense, calculation, or math problem solving
  • Challenges beginning in childhood (although the diagnosis may be made later)
  • Academic skill development is signficantly impaired and problems are evident in work, school, or daily activities 
  • Problems do not have another known cause 

Source: American Psychiatric Association Links to an external site.

 

There is no single well-established method of evaluating a learning disability (LD) in math. Difficulties with learning math may be due to an math-specific LD, due to an LD that is not specific to math, or due to learning challenges caused by other issues like anxiety or educational gaps. Learning disabilities in reading, visual spatial ability, working memory, and processing speed can all make learning math difficult, however they are not specific to math. Therefore, an LD evaluation requires testing in many areas of information processing​ in order to understand a student's strengths and weaknesses. Testing may include an evalution of verbal language ability, visual spatial ability, ability to learn new concepts, working memory, processing speed, reading, basic math calculation, mathematical problem solving, sequencing, math fluency and reading fluency. Results of an evaluation can be helpful for recommending specific types of math classes that may be better options, study strategies that may be beneficial, and accommodations that may be helpful.  

 

Common Challenges for Adults with Dyscalculia ​

  • ​Difficulty estimating costs like groceries bills​
  • Challenges keeping score in a game​
  • Difficulty learning math concepts beyond the basic math facts​
  • Poor ability to budget or balance a checkbook​
  • Trouble with concepts of time, such as sticking to a schedule or approximating time​
  • Trouble with mental math​
  • Confusion with part-whole relationships​
  • Difficulty finding different approaches to one problem​

​Sources: National Center for Learning Disabilities Links to an external site. and the National Center for Adult Learning and Literacy​ Links to an external site.

 

One Student's Story

image.png

One student's story of dyscalculia and accepting support Links to an external site.

 

Study Strategies for Math

Sometimes a few simple study strategies can make a big difference! There are lots of different strategies, so don't try to use them all. Pick one or two as your first step. If you like them, then you will probably start using them regularly. If not, then try one or two others. Figure out what works best for your way of learning and for the requirements of each specific class. Give it a try! 

Video Title: Study Skills for Math with woman speaking

Watch this 4:32 minute video Links to an external site. by Sheryl Kern-Jones that talks about study strategies for learning math and preparing for math tests. 

There are module on Memory Strategies and Test Preparation in the ASC Study Strategies modules that may also be helpful. 

A Note on Math Anxiety

Many students report experiencing math anxiety and anxiety related to math tests. Anxiety is an emotion that every person experiences. When anxiety is too high, it can interfere with a student's ability to focus attention on studying or an exam, cause difficulty thinking about things they may understand, and interfere with memory. High levels of anxiety make it difficult for your brain to hold information and solve problems (working memory), both of which are crucial for doing math. The ASC Study Strategies modules have a section on anxiety with many strategies and resources. 

 

Math Resources and Tutoring

Cabrillo Resources

Other Resources