It is time for sunrise.

The eastern skies wrapped a red shawl

The birds chirped around trees that stood tall

The gentle breeze refreshed the world around

When men and women set out to complete tasks profound.

 On my way from home to school a thousand questions arose but the answers were none.

Why do days dawn to make me read and write

I try and try but always fail

I sit by my classroom window and watch people pass by

Their words ‘distracted lazy child’ would make me cry

 Though their concerns always remained piled

To my state, I had reconciled

One day a knock on the door I hear

there stood an angel with hands held out

It is time for sunrise

Come along oh dear

She held my hands and said it all

Unsung songs, unspoken words

Unseen sights and unfelt emotions

I bloomed as a flower nurtured by her care

That washed away my despair

 This is my message to every child who learns differently

Fear not, look out for that angel from the blue skies

And hear her say wake up oh child

It is time for sunrise.

I see, I hear, I do, and I learn – Learning Differently.

Here is a poem that depicts a child’s emotions with learning difficulties. The child’s sadness transforms into joy when an angel tenderly cares for them. The angel in this poem refers to inclusive education, whose goal is to assist every child in experiencing the happiness of learning.

A thought to ponder!!!!!!

Do you see children in your classrooms waiting for the angel?

Children who have learning disabilities encounter numerous difficulties in their lives. However, the most excruciating challenge is when they are labeled and treated differently by their teachers, classmates, family, and society.

Learning Objectives

   Overall Learning Objectives

      • To create awareness among teachers about children’s learning issues and facilitate active learning.
      • To Understand learning disabilities
      • To recognize characteristics of learning disabilities
      • To identify the causes and types of learning disabilities

   Specific Learning Objectives

      • This module will enable learners to define learning disabilities and differentiate them from other developmental disorders.
      • To understand the prevalence of learning disabilities
      • To recognize the key behavioral indicators that may suggest the presence of a learning disability
      • To recognize specific academic challenges faced by students with learning disabilities
      • To develop skills in applying accommodations and to learn to modify instructional methods and materials to better meet the needs of students with learning disabilities.
Pre-Training Questions for an Introduction to Learning Disability
Content Outline

1.1 Introduction to Learning Disabilities

1.2 Characteristics of Learning Disabilities

1.3 Causes of Learning Disabilities

Key Concepts

What is a Learning Disability?

Learning Disability is a term that describes specific kinds of learning problems in individuals.

Learning Disability affects the ability to learn and use specific skills, such as reading, writing, listening, speaking, reasoning, directing attention, mathematical calculations, and coordinating movements. (Ref. Including Children With Special Needs; Primary Stage. pg. 11; NCERT publication, 2014)

The coordinated action of the sense organs, parts of the body, and the brain determines a child’s learning process, which encompasses information input through the senses with attention as an important aspect. Subsequently, the perceived information retained in working memory transforms into long-term memory through practice and maintenance activity, finally

enabling effective retrieval.A learning disability is most often manifested through the behavior of a child.In India, the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) defines learning disabilities as “a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in the understanding or in using language, spoken or written, which may manifest itself in an imperfect ability to listen, speak, read, spell or do mathematics.”

Children who face challenges with learning due to visual or hearing impairments, mental retardation, limited motor skills, emotional or behavioral issues, and environmental stressors or a combination of these and require special attention are not considered to have a learning disability.

 The terms “difficulty” and “disability” are often used interchangeably, but this is incorrect. Difficulties may arise due to a poor learning environment, faulty teaching methods, or socio-emotional factors that affect a student’s learning. On the other hand, disabilities are present at birth and become apparent during the child’s formal learning period.

In this video, Dr Onita Nakra, a specialist in learning disabilities, will provide insights into Learning Disabilities and address the following aspects:

      • Characteristics of LD – (25%)
      • Causes of LD – (5%)
      • Kinds of LD – (10%)
      • Accommodation and Modification – (25%)

 Dr Nakra’s video link is attached here.

Conclusion

This module provides a foundational understanding of learning disabilities, equipping educators with the knowledge to recognize, understand, and support students with diverse learning needs. By exploring the characteristics, causes, and types of learning disabilities, and by learning about effective accommodations and modifications, educators can create more inclusive and supportive learning environments. Ultimately, this module empowers educators to foster the academic and personal growth of all students, ensuring that those with learning disabilities receive the appropriate resources and opportunities to succeed.

Post Assessment – (15%)

Self-Reflection – (10%)

        1. Do you have a student in your class who struggles with reading and spelling? Do you suspect they may have a learning disability? If so, can you identify 2-3 strengths that they demonstrate that you can build on?
        2. How will you explain what a learning disability is to a parent? Record your model conversation/dialogue.
Attributions/Citations
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