Abstract:
The aim of this study was to investigate the learning disabilities of primary school children. The study sample consisted of 10 teachers and 50 primary school children from five governmental schools at Western Province. using case control research design.
Learning disability (LD) is not a single disorder, but includes disabilities in any of seven areas related to reading, language, and mathematics, etc. These separate types of learning disabilities frequently co-occur with one another and with social skill deficits and emotional or behavioral disorders. Most of the available information concerning learning disabilities relates to reading disabilities, and the majority of children with learning disabilities have their primary deficits in basic reading skills. This study documents that the high prevalence of difficulties among primary school children is an alarming condition that needs attention and early intervention. The study recommended that a periodic screening test should be provided for early detection of emotional and behavioral problems for children with learning disabilities.
This study focuses primarily on deficits in basic reading skills, writing skills and speaking skills, because of their critical importance to academic success and because relatively more is known about these deficiencies. However, other academic, social, and behavioral manifestations of learning disability are also important and cannot be assumed to be adequately addressed by programs to improve basic reading skills. While early intervention is necessary, it should not be assumed to be sufficient to address the multiple manifestations of learning disability.
This study documents that the high prevalence of difficulties among primary school children is an alarming condition that needs attention and early intervention.
