Hello Ian. Very important point. I'd like to add some comments to it.
Dyslexia/dyscalculia/ADHD/etc from a deficit, (literacy-objectives-society)
model have very different and clear (theoretical) characteristics.Therefore
there exist different causal theories that follow a medical model of finding
the cause and cure(s) (i,e, phonological processing , magnocelular deficit,
hemispheric interaction deficit, cerebellar deficit theories). These
theories although remarkable and plausible, obey short term, not
necessarily scientific, purposes: i.e. find ways of improving literacy
achievement so, amongst others, for goverments to be re-elected, and
companies to help them on this (ie. selling software and pay taxes).
Therefore, the need to have clear differences in ascertaining when a
dyscalculia is a dyscalculia rather than dyslexia. However neurological
sciences have difficulties in finding out and corroborate the same
distinctions (sciences is science after all): ergo, a child could be
dyslexic, have dyscalculia and asperger. More importantly a person could be
dyslexic and not having phonological processing problem in the English
language. These contradictions shed light that these syndromes require a
holistic (non linear) classification. From a human (ecological) perspective,
these syndromes share common grounds; they are differences in processing
information coming from external stimuli..Society will realise at one point
has it has chosen to call these differences, disabilities. I can see that
the DBA is short to reach that point: therefore the ecological approach
conclusion of its 6th conference. Hope this helps, Andy
----- Original Message -----
From: "Ian Litterick" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Thursday, April 01, 2004 1:32 PM
Subject: Re: Dyscalculia
According to Chris Singleton at the BDA conference this week, if I
interpret him correctly, dyscalculia proper (an inability to deal with
the concept of number) is quite rare. More likely is a dyslexic side
effect of poor short term memory and slow processing showing as an
inability to remember number facts (eg tables) and poor arithmetic
manipulation.
Either way, the EP should be looking for dyslexia as well as
dyscalculia, not to mention ADHD and DCD which are very commonly
"comorbid" with dyslexia.
Chris Singleton is also developing a screening test (but not published
yet).
Regards
Ian Litterick
Www.iansyst.co.uk
www.dyslexic.com
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Discussion list for disabled students and their support
> staff. [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Katy Mann
> Sent: 01 April 2004 21:05
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: [DIS-FORUM] Dyscalculia
>
>
> I've had a query from a student who suspects they might have
> dyscalculia. Is anyone aware of a screening test/diagnosis for this?
>
> Is it possible to have only Dyscalculia or are you likely to be
> dyslexic/dyspraxic as well?
>
> Do all Ed Psychs look at this possibility or does it vary?
>
> Any pointers would be really helpful.
>
> Thanks
>
> Katy
>
> Katy Mann
> Disability Adviser, West End
> University of Westminster
> CCPD
> 72 Great Portland Street
> London W1W 7UW
> Tel/Minicom:(020) 7915 5456
> Fax: (020)7911 5162
>
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