How does one know if they have a mathematical learning disability?

Question

I think I may have one.

Answer 1

I at one time felt that I had dyscalclia which is a learning disability in math.  You can get tested but it is not cheap.  I opted not to get the testing done....or shall we say I opted to drag my feet and just tell everyone that I thought this is what was going on.  To get certified in the state of PA, I had to take the PRAXIS exam which involved a math component.  I was terrified and therefore took the scenic route through college while I struggled through every math class I had to take.  I was fortunate enough to happen upon someone that was familiar with the philosophy of Direct Instruction (DI).  I told her that I thought I had a learning disability and she insisted that I just had poor instruction.  If you are like me, you were quiet and frightened to raise your hand and ask questions.  I just sort of fell behind and never caught up. This person put me through a driect instriuction math program, and guess what?  I scored highest on the math portion of the PRAXIS.  Please try to research this as an option.  You will be amazed at the results and children with learning disabilities are instructed this way.  This is also way cheaper then getting a test to tell you for sure what is goig on

Answer 2

If you're concerned you have a learning disability in a given area, there are a few things you can do.  The first thing you should do is talk to your guidance counselor.  You can actually refer yourself to your school psychologist who is the individual that tests students to see if they qualify for services.  He or she would give you two tests, a cognitive test (IQ test) and an achievement test (your skill levels).  If there is a wide enough discrepancy between your ability (IQ score) and achievement score in math, then you may be eligible for specialized instruction in math.  Even if the gap between IQ and performance isn't wide enough and you therefore don't qualify for specialized instruction, that doesn't mean you can't get help.  Your guidance counselor and teachers are more than willing to help you find success in math... especially since it seems that you really want to do well and it's bothering you that you aren't right now.  Good luck!

Answer 3

If one is unable to do simple mathematical calculations or is unable to keep track of time, date, etc which require the use of mathematical applications, then that person has a mathematical learning disability.