Learning Disabilities in Young Students

Is it possible to be at a disadvantage in the school system without even knowing it? Can learning disabilities affect a student’s life both inside and outside the classroom? A student who struggles with a learning disability, or an “LD” may run into these troubles. There are multiple noted disparities for these students. Such disparities include methods of evaluation, the type of classes taken by students who have a learning disability versus students who do not, and the presence of support services offered to students who have been diagnosed with an LD.

In particular, one of the largest areas for inequality is the method of evaluation for a child that is suspected of having a learning disability. During the process of evaluation, a student is given two separate tests to take, and the scores of each are compared. The first is an IQ test, and the second is similar to a standardized test, consisting of math, reading and writing portions. The difference of scores is calculated as a numerical value, and this number can determine whether or not the student is diagnosed with a specific learning disability, and in turn, if they qualify for additional services or support.

This testing can be carried out either privately through an evaluator independent from the school, or publicly through the school. Although both processes of testing are structured the same, there is evidence that suggests that private testing is often more accurate and thorough than public testing. For example, in a private testing setting, the parents of the child can select the evaluator, which is usually only one person, meaning that the child receives full attention during the testing. In comparison, public testing is usually completed at school, by a few individuals that work at the school; these individuals may have preconceived biases that could be based on the school’s funds or resources, or a lack thereof. In addition, private testing can be completed without approval from the school, and also focuses on a more specific diagnosis, instead of a broader conclusion.

There is one major drawback to private testing that is worth noting however: the cost. Private evaluations for a child can cost between $500-$2,500, versus public testing through a school system, which is free of charge by law. Due to the high expenses, many families cannot afford a private evaluation and resort to a public test. This disparity could create a disadvantage for students who were tested publicly instead of privately, and not allow them to reach their full potential as a result.

For all the aforementioned reasons, it is hugely important that public schools offer students suspected to have a learning disability with an unbiased and proper evaluation, similar to a private evaluation. If schools work to properly diagnose a student, then the most effective treatment plan can be created.