Definition of Learning and Attention Disabilities

Abstract

People working in the realm of learning and attention disabilities need, at the least, a straightforward scheme to keep life simple. Consider, then, that there are basically three types of learning problems:

• 1. Chronic learning insufficiencies: Global deficiencies affecting all areas of learning—for example, mental retardation.

• 2. Transient learning “glitches”: sporadic roadblocks to learning that occur every now and then and eventually are overcome with or without the assistance of a teacher — for example, “I just don’t understand fractions.”

• 3. Learning inefficiencies: long-term (greater than six months) attentional problems and/or classroom performance difficulties manifested by attentional deficits or a slow rate of skill acquisition in one or more academic or social learning areas despite normal intelligence. This large group includes those entities that are the subject of this book: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD).