A weak short-term auditory memory [often known as working memory] is often
associated with a number of specific learning difficulties, including
dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADD/ADHD. It can also be a specific learning
difficulty in its own right.
I would recommend that the students are advised to obtain a full assessment
based on the WAIS-III. This will enable a comparison of an overal working
memory score with scores for verbal and visual reasoning, and with a score
for speed of visual processing, to be undertaken. This will at least enable
a quantifiaction of the magnitude of a deficit to be revealed [assuming one
is present].
It is important that the psychologist who carries this out pays particular
attention to a personal history for this is especially crucial to arriving
at a diagnosis of ADD. [I add this note about the importance of a personal
history because of my experience of encountering some reports where this has
been undertaken in what might best be described as a cursory manner.]
David
David Grant, PhD., Chartered Psychologist
dyslexia diagnosis - a specialist service for students
3 Rosebank Road
Hanwell
London W7 2EW
Tel: 020 8579 1902
e-mail: [log in to unmask]
----------
>From: "Boyce, Mark" <[log in to unmask]>
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: Re: dyslexia screening
>Date: Mon, Oct 28, 2002, 12:43 pm
>
>I have recently screened two students for dyslexia. Neither have shown
>indicators other than weak short-term memory and short attention span. The
>one student did mention, however, that they were advised to be screened for
>ADD. Is this a possibility
>
>My background is in dyslexia and associated disabilities, but because the
>profiles of these two students were so similar I didn't want to dismiss them
>completely.
>
>Can anyone help with advice on where I should direct them?
>
>Mark Boyce
>Dyslexia Support Tutor (UWIC)
|