Abstract
The term learning disability (LD) refers to any retardation, disorder, or delayed development in one or more of the processes of speech, language, reading, writing, arithmetic, or other school subjects resulting from a psychological handicap caused by a possible cerebral dysfunction and/or emotional or behavioural disturbances (Adam & Tatnall, 2002). It is not the result of mental retardation, sensory deprivation, or cultural and instructional factors (Kirk, 1962). Specific learning disabilities is a chronic condition of presumed neurological origin that selectively interferes with the development, integration, and/or demonstration of verbal and/or nonverbal abilities. Specific learning disability exists as a distinct handicapping condition and varies in its manifestations and degree of severity (Adam & Tatnall, 2003). Throughout life, the condition can affect self-esteem, education, vocation, socialisation, and/or daily living activities (ACLD, 1986, p. 15). Two definitions of LD are well supported: a legislative definition from the United States found in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA, 1997) and the one proposed by the National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities (NJCLD, 1994), a consortium of representatives from organizations interested in LD.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Special Needs: Children with education needs that differ from those of the mainstream; often know as children with learning disabilities.
Specific Learning Disabilities: A chronic condition of presumed neurological origin, which selectively interferes with the development, integration, and/or demonstration of verbal and/or nonverbal abilities.
Learning Disability: A retardation, disorder, or delayed development in one or more of the processes of speech, language, reading, writing, arithmetic, or other school subjects resulting from a psychological handicap caused by a possible cerebral dysfunction and/or emotional or behavioural disturbances.
Special School: A school set up to cater for the education of children with special needs.
Web Portal: A special Internet (or intranet) site designed to act as a gateway to give access to all network-accessible resources whether involving intranets, extranets, or the Internet.
Hospital School: A school (or education unit) operating from a major hospital with the goal of catering to the special needs of children whose hospitalisation disrupts, or has disrupted, their normal schooling.
Virtual Community: A group of people who share a common interest or bond, but rather than meeting physically they form communities that cross geographical, social, cultural or economic boundaries.