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Assessments and diagnosis
For a learning disability to be identified it is first important to rule out other factors that may be affecting the learning process such as visual, hearing, or motor impairments, environmental or cultural factors, or an acquired brain injury. The formal assessment of learning disabilities focuses on psychological and educational tests , including tests of intelligence and cognitive abilities, achievement tests, and tests of behavior and attention. The tests themselves will yield scores that are able to give an estimate of the general intelligence (intelligence quotient or IQ) of the student, and the academic achievement level as compared to an established norm of the individual's age group. A qualified psychologist or psychometrist may only conduct this formal assessment.
If AD/HD is suspected, a professional child psychiatrist, psychologist, developmental/behavioral pediatrician, or a neurologist can make the diagnosis. After ruling out other possible reasons for the individual's behavior, the specialist will check the behavioural and medical history of the individual and diagnosis based on a series of forms and questionnaires listing common symptoms of AD/HD and the long term presence of specific behaviours
The following chart outlines the differences between learning disabilities and AD/HD
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Learning Disabilities |
ADHD/ADD |
Diagnosis |
intelligence, academic and processing tests to determine disparities between ability and performance |
defined by symptoms of hyperactivity and inattentiveness |
Presumed cause |
different circuitry in the brain |
insufficient metabolism of particular brain chemicals |
Treatment |
medication cannot change brain circuitry
needs modified education that is customized to individuals learning differences. |
May include medication to increase metabolism as well as other interventions
once attentive, individuals are able to learn as others do |
For more information please see the following articles
Assessment of Learning Disabilities
ldao.ca/aboutld/articles/general/assess.php
Adults with Learning Disabilities and Assessment
www.ldao.ca/about_ld/adults/adassess.php#1
LD and ADHD Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
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