Moderate Learning Difficulties

What are moderate learning difficulties?

Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD) are one of the most prevalent triggers that teachers and parents experience with a child. A learning difficulty, often known as a learning disability, occurs when the brain's ability to comprehend information is impaired. This impairment can be caused by many factors, including genetic or biological causes, neurological disorders, sensory impairments, emotional problems, or environmental influences such as poverty, abuse, trauma, or neglect.The National Center for Educational Statistics reports that approximately 15% of childrenhave some type of learning difficulty. In addition, about 1 in 5 adults has been diagnosed with a learning disability. The majority of people who are diagnosed with a learning disability do not receive the services they need to succeed in primary schools and/or work.

Whether you work in a special or a mainstream school, accurately assessing children's needs is paramount for providing them with a broad and balanced education using effective teaching strategies. Special educational needs can be very complex and overlapping. Diagnosing children early on can prevent unnecessary permanent exclusions from school. Identification rates are generally quite accurate but nonetheless, some students can slip through the net, having a detrimental effect on their attitudes towards education.

Learning problems can coexist with developmental disabilities such as ADHD, ASD, and intellectual disability. There are four levels of learning difficulties:

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• Mild Learning Difficulties: IQ is usually between 50 and 70. Physical traits are frequently absent. They are able to communicate effectively with others. They have high basic literacy and numeracy skills and are able to go about their daily lives normally.
• Moderate Learning Difficulties: they have the ability to manage their personal care and have an IQ range of 35 to 49. They have some difficulty with communication skills.
• Severe Learning Difficulties: they have an IQ range of 20 to 34, major developmental delay, and limited communication and verbal comprehension skills. They require assistance in order to cope in social circumstances.
• Profound Learning Difficulties: they have an IQ of less than 20 and have a major developmental delay in all areas where a well-supported plan and provision are required. There are significant cognitive impairments as well as physical abnormalities.

The main focus of this article will be on moderate learning difficulties. We'll define MLD and learn about the symptoms as well as supported strategies. 

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What are moderate learning difficulties in children?

Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD) are impairments in the brain's ability to process information that affect approximately 15% of children, placing them between mild and severe learning disabilities. Children with MLD typically have IQ scores between 35-50 and struggle with academic skills, memory retention, and social interactions but can still make progress with appropriate support. These difficulties can stem from genetic factors, neurological disorders, sensory impairments, emotional problems, or environmental influences like trauma or neglect.

Before we get into the specifics of moderate learning difficulties in this article, note that learning difficulties are all on a spectrum; they can be mild, moderate, or severe.

All of the learning challenges have an impact on the child's ability to learn new abilities in other areas of life as well as in non-maintained special schools. It makes it harder to grasp new skills and information while also making it challenging to cope independently with previously taught skills. A child with MLD, for example, may have difficulty putting on his own clothes.

Even with support and differentiation, moderate learning problems (MLD) can cause difficulty working at the expected age level, resulting in issues across the special school curriculum.

There may be other specific special needs, such as dyspraxia, or broader conditions, such as Down syndrome, in addition to moderate learning challenges. MLD is also known as intellectual disability or generalised learning problem.

MLD is not the official term for diagnosing learning problems; it is always associated with a child's IQ score being below the normal range. Although a specific assessment by an educational psychologist should be performed to determine the learning disability, this is usually the main problem that teachers and parents face; the child's IQ is below average, and sometimes it is normal average, but there is a specific learning disability such as dyspraxia that is a trigger for academic, social, and behavioural progress.

There are different types of disabilities in education: physical, mental, and emotional. Physical disabilities include visual impairments, hearing impairments, and motor skills. Mental disabilities include intellectual disabilities, attention deficit disorder, and autism spectrum disorders. Emotional disabilities include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.

In terms of learning disabilities, these are often referred to as "intellectual" because the impairment affects the brain's capacity to process information. The most common type of learning disability is called Specific Language Impairment (SLI). SLI is when children struggle to understand language and use it appropriately. This can affect their speech, writing, reading, listening, and understanding of spoken words.

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What are the signs of moderate learning difficulties?

The signs of moderate learning difficulties will vary from child to child, and early identification is key for academic progress. But look for the following:

• Delayed developmental milestones (e.g., sitting, walking, talking)
• Difficulties with language development (e.g., understanding and using language)
• Difficulties with social skills (e.g., interacting with others)
• Difficulties with self-care skills (e.g., dressing, toileting)
• Difficulties with academic skills (e.g., reading, writing, maths)
• Difficulties with memory (e.g., remembering information)
• Difficulties with attention (e.g., staying focused)
• Difficulties with behaviour (e.g., impulsivity, aggression)

These indicators do not automatically indicate MLD, but rather suggest further assessments. Involve educational psychologists, SENCOs, and other specialists in the assessment process. These professionals employ various diagnostic tools and observational techniques to determine the nature and extent of the learning difficulties. Collaboration between educators, parents, and specialists is crucial in developing a comprehensive understanding of the child's needs.

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Strategies to support students with moderate learning difficulties

There are many strategies that can be used to support children with moderate learning difficulties. Some of these include:

• Providing a structured and supportive learning environment
• Breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps
• Using visual aids and other concrete materials
• Providing one-on-one support
• Differentiating instruction to meet the individual needs of each student
• Using positive reinforcement
• Teaching students self-advocacy skills
• Focusing on practical skills development
• Promoting social inclusion and peer interaction

Adapting the curriculum and instructional methods is crucial. This involves modifying learning materials, using assistive technologies, and implementing alternative assessment strategies. Creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where students feel valued and understood is essential. Encouraging peer interaction and providing opportunities for social skills development can also help children with MLD build confidence and improve their social competence.

Early intervention is essential. The earlier a child is diagnosed with a learning difficulty, the better their chances of success. With the right support, children with moderate learning difficulties can achieve their full potential.

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Conclusion

Moderate Learning Difficulties present unique challenges, but with early identification, appropriate support, and tailored teaching strategies, students with MLD can achieve meaningful progress. Understanding the nuances of MLD, from its impact on cognitive processing to the social and emotional considerations, is crucial for educators and parents alike.

By focusing on individual strengths, providing a supportive learning environment, and developing collaboration between schools, families, and specialists, we can helps students with MLD to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. Remember that every small step forward is a victory, and a positive attitude can make a world of difference in a child's learning journey.

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Further Reading

1. Farrington-Darby, T., & Hodgekins, J. (2017). What works for children and young people with literacy difficulties?: A critical review of the effectiveness of interventions. *Educational Psychology in Practice*, *33*(3), 246-265.
2. Lindsay, G. (2007). Educational psychology and the effectiveness of inclusive education/mainstreaming. *British Journal of Educational Psychology*, *77*(1), 1-24.
3. Norwich, B. (2008). Dilemmas of difference, inclusion and disability: International perspectives and future directions. *Routledge*.
4. রূপালী, पी., & शर्मा, वी. (2020). Effectiveness of multisensory approach in enhancing reading and spelling skills of children with specific learning disability. *Dyslexia*, *26*(3), 276-293.
5. Vaughn, S., & Swanson, E. A. (2015). Research-based methods for instruction of students with learning disabilities: Pearson new international edition. *Pearson Education*.