Testing for Learning Disabilities

When a child is suspected of having a learning disability, be prepared for the gamut of tests to be run to determine exactly which disability is the primary problem. Typically before testing for learning disabilities start, educators will try to work with the child and parent to try a number of different educational interventions to see if perhaps the problem is a developmental delay rather than a disability.

If a disability is indeed the cause of learning complications, an educational diagnostician may conduct an IQ test first to gauge global intelligence. Often times, average or even gifted kids have learning disabilities which mask that intelligence. Next, there is an assessment period before testing for learning disabilities which consists of trying examining the student’s academic files and even observations in the classroom.

Next, medical examinations are done with the student’s doctor to check vision and hearing as sometimes deficiencies in one of these can cause academic upset. A full family history and social workup with provide a background for evaluation. Testing for learning disabilities may then start by checking the gross and fine motor skills of the student. Sometimes, language difficulties can affect writing and other fine motor skills.

Adaptive behaviors of the student may be a part of the testing for learning disabilities as well as an assessment for speech and language. Speech impediments may hide an underlying disability. An assessment of academic skills is conducted which includes reading, writing and math. Social, emotional and behavioral aspects are viewed as well as part of the testing.

Psychiatric evaluations may be a part of testing for learning disabilities, especially when a particular cause of the learning problem cannot be accurately pinpointed by other means. Plus, observing the student and how the learning problem affects them can provide great insight into the character of the student too. Once test results are received and the learning disability determined, the school educators will work with the parents and student to map out an individualized educational plan to target the problem areas.