By: Iman Moshaya
What is dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects someone’s ability to do maths and understand numbers. The DSM-5 states that dyscalculia is a ‘specific learning disorder with impairment in mathematics.’ (Cleveland clinic)
Causes and Symptoms
No one knows the exact cause of dyscalculia, however there is evidence to suggest it is genetic. Individuals with dyscalculia often exhibit specific brain differences which appear to indicate less development and fewer connections between brain cells in areas for numerical and calculation related tasks. The reason behind these differences and their impact on the symptoms is unclear. (Cleveland clinic)
The symptoms of dyscalculia depends on the person and their age, but generally the symptoms are:
• Difficulty counting backwards
• Difficulty reading clocks
• Difficulty with basic mathematical calculations
• Using fingers to count beyond an appropriate age
• Trouble recognising maths symbols
• Difficulty with mental maths
• Struggle with organising numbers by scale or decimal place
• Difficulty measuring quantities
• Trouble understanding and converting fractions
In addition to this, they may experience emotional symptoms such as fear, anxiety, and anger around maths. (Rae Jacobson)
Impact on academic performance
People with dyscalculia may experience anxiety around going to maths class and taking maths exams. This anxiousness can impact their academic performance as they can be too scared to even attempt a question, leading them to have bad grades. Additionally, the student may even
develop a fear of going to school because they are afraid of having to do maths. (Cleveland clinic)
Impact on self-esteem
Struggling in maths can lead someone to feel stupid. It is difficult to see everyone around you understand maths easily whereas someone with dyscalculia will find it very difficult to grasp simple mathematical concepts. The fear of failure in math can lead to a lack of confidence in multiple areas of life which can make it very difficult to take on new challenges and pursue goals. (Lexicon reading centre)
Support Strategies
Individuals with dyscalculia need a comprehensive approach to learning. Strategies like using visual aids, real world applications, and breaking down problems into smaller, step-by-step verbal explanations can be particularly helpful. Furthermore, therapy and counseling can help address emotional challenges and build self-esteem. (Kaitlin Vogel, 2022)
References:
1. Vogel, K. (2022) What is dyscalculia. Psych Central
2. (Dyscalculia, Cleveland
3. (How dyscalculia can affect teenagers lexicon reading centre)
4. (Rae Jacobson n.d how to spot dyscalculia childmind)
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