Diagnosis on dyscalculia
Textruta: Mathematical Disability Acalculia Dyscalculia General problems with mathematics Pseudo-dyscalculia Textruta: Different types of difficulties The term dyscalculia is derived from new-Latin stems, there being two words or word stems that are distinguishable. The word stem dys indicates that a state of dysfunction is involved, the word calculus, which originates from Greek, denoting in direct translation a stone used for making calculations. The resulting word, dyscalculia, means difficulties in performing mathematical calculations of certain types. What distinguishes dyscalculia from other types of mathematical difficulties is the fact that particular aspects of mathematical calculations are involved. If a person has difficulties with performing the four basic types of arithmetic operations, for example, this obviously leads to difficulties performing higher mathematical operations as well. The basic difficulties may involve not being able to access principles pertaining to arithmetic operations. This in turn may affect the ability to execute simple as well as more complex mathematical operations, which may require extended periods of time to perform. One should note, however, that many individuals with dyscalculia can master difficult mathematical tasks but require a considerable amount of time for carrying out the operations. This shows the importance of assigning pupils with dyscalculia tasks that are of the appropriate level to suit their learning needs. If the level is too low, this can be perceived as an insult by the pupil and therefore is of poor motivational value. It may amount to the child giving up, an occurrence which my experience suggests to occur rather frequently. One can speak of at least four types of difficulties with mathematics: Acalculia Dyscalculia General difficulties with mathematics Pseudo-dyscalculia The differences in terms of the causal factors involved and the difficulties the child experiences mean that the forms of intervention called for differ considerably. Being given mathematical exercises of the wrong sort could make the situation for a child with dyscalculia worse, for example, and giving a child with acalculia conventional mathematical training at all should be avoided, since he/she would scarcely be able to master it. Accurate differential diagnosis is thus important, just as it is in general medicine.

What is dyscalculia? │ Signs on dyscalculia │ Diagnosis on dyscalculia

    │ Pedagogical work │ Dyscalculia Screening │ Neuropedagogical Screening

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