Abstract The paper defines dysgraphia as a neurological disorder that causes people to experience difficulty writing. Even though both adults and children suffer from the disorder, the focus of this paper is primarily on the child. There are many different components to dysgraphia that are discussed in this paper. This paper also explores the history of the disorder as well as implications and treatments. Finally, presented in this paper is the latest research on the disorder and how new developments have helped those who are afflicted with dysgraphia.
From the Paper "It is crucial that parent recognize the early warning signs of a child suffering from dysgraphia. Positive reinforcement is necessary to overcoming the disability, if the disorder is not recognized the child may be perceived as lazy or unconcerned with his or her schoolwork. A child mistaken for lazy who has an undiagnosed case of dysgraphia may become frustrated, withdrawn and even depressed. Therefore, a parent must heed the warning signs and arrange for the proper assessment(s) to be conducted. If a child is confirmed to have a case of dysgraphia, the proper course of treatment must be followed. Adults who have never been diagnosed but are aware of their deficiency must also undergo the same course of action."
Abstract In this article, the writer researches the problem of 'dysgraphia' including the history, symptoms, statistical information and treatments if any. Further, the various types of assistive technology tools that can be utilized to improve the functionality of an individual in an educational environment with this specific disability are explored. This work also addresses the legal responsibility of the educational system in provision of such devices.
Outline:
Objective
Introduction
Responsibilities of Schools
Assistive Methods
Assistive Technologies
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper "One example of this type of device is the AlphaSmart 3000 keyboard which has a very simple operating system and all the student has to do is turn it on and begin writing. The AlphaSmart automatically saves whatever is typed, the student may work back and forth between documents editing, copying and pasting and the AlphaSmart interfaces with both Macintosh and PCs.
"Another tool that is useful for the student with Dysgraphia are 'Prewriting Organizers'. The writing process is inclusive of several stages including the planning stage which involves ... "
Abstract In this proposal, the writer provides an overview of the learning disorder "dysgraphia" which describes a learning disabled person that has difficulty interpreting their own written language or handwriting. The paper begins with a synopsis or review of learning disabilities and a detailed description of the learning disability reviewed. Further the writer presents an overview of best practices, curriculum adaptations and other changes a teacher and student may make to enhance the learning experience of a learning disabled child.
Outline:
Executive Summary
Plan of Differentiated Instruction to Meet the Special Needs of this Student
Best Practices
Personnel Implementing Plan
Sample Lesson Plan Overview
Lesson Plan 1: Research Report
Lesson Plan 2: Writing Poetry
From the Paper " The goal of differentiated instruction is to meet the needs of the student with dysgraphia, so they are able to comprehend their own written word and transcribe their thoughts in a way they can understand, and in a way that their teachers and other peers can understand. In this instance the student has difficulty writing in their own "handwriting" and then making sense out of the writing produced. The goal is to help the student by developing a modified approach to learning so that he can participate in a normal, general education classroom. This will help the student feel less like an "outcast" and will thus help the student bolster his self-esteem, which may then improve his outlook on life and commitment to learning."
Abstract This paper provides an insight into learning disabilities, neurological disorders that affect people's ability to either interpret what they see and hear or to link information from different parts of the brain. It looks at how these limitations show up in many ways in individuals who are generally of average or above-average intelligence and how specific difficulties with oral and written language, coordination, self-control, or attention can extend to schoolwork and can impede learning to read, write, or do math. It also examines how learning disabilities may also cause major difficulties with organizational skills, social perception, and social interaction.
Outline
Introduction
Types of Learning Disabilities
Causes of Learning Disorders
Dealing with Learning Disabilities in the Classroom
Learning Disabilities in Adulthood
Recent Medical Research
From the Paper "Difficulty manipulating small objects, poor balance, awkwardness with walking, running or climbing and a poor sense of surroundings can indicate a disorder involving motor skills and can affect the ability to learn, but do not meet the criteria for a specific learning disability, such as developmental speech and language, or academic skills disorder.
Problems regarding an individual's social skills may indicate a learning disorder. Disinterest with, or difficulty in interaction with one's peers, overly aggressive or withdrawn attitudes, sudden and extreme mood swings and/or frequent crying or tantrums are some signs of learning disabilities."
Abstract This paper is a scholarly analysis of Broca's aphasia, a condition that is characterized by the loss of the ability to comprehend language, coupled with production of inappropriate language. The disorder is named for Dr. Paul Broca of France. While there are speech therapy treatments available for the condition, complete recovery is not usual. This paper provides a review of the relevant scholarly literature concerning Broca's aphasia, includes a discussion of its discoverer, and an overview of the condition, as well as its causes and treatments. A summary of the research is provided in the conclusion.
From the Paper "When he was only 17 years old, Dr. Paul Broca started his career as a prosector and he eventually became Secretary of the Societ?-Anatomique in his native country of France. In his capacity as a neurological clinician and researcher, he was a prolific writer and was responsible for well over 500 presentations. According to one biographer, Broca wrote a classic 900-page monograph on aneurysms. Despite considerable opposition, Broca helped introduce the microscope in the diagnosis of cancer. However, today he is best known amongst so many other accomplishments for his contribution to neurology the concept of functional localization by cerebral convolution. With his elderly father watching in silent admiration in a memorable meeting in 1862, Broca demonstrated the brain lesion of his first patient who had suffered from aph"mie (to be renamed aphasia later by Armand Trousseau, 1801-1867). Based on this presentation and other ongoing observations, Broca concluded that the integrity of the left frontal convolution was responsible and necessary for articular speech (David Ferrier 1843-1928) is responsible for naming this region "Broca's convolution -- the motor speech area" (Dr. Paul Broca, 2000, p. 2)."
This paper discusses assistive technology, any equipment used to increase, maintain or improve the capabilities of persons suffering from any type of disabilities or impairment.
Abstract This paper explains that one area of assistive technology refers to devices that are used by disabled people to promote an easy access to computers, such as text-to-speech screen readers, voice recognition software, alternative keyboards, head pointing equipment and screen magnifiers. The author points out that 'Speech Recognition' software is often used by individuals with dyslexia and dysgraphia; however, a basic training process is required by which the computer is learns to recognize and accept the individual user's speech patterns. The paper relates that home or workplace modifications, such as ramps, lifts and adaptations in the bathrooms and toilets, can be done so that the individuals can move around within their own familiar surroundings without much difficulty.
From the Paper "Assistive technology devices to be used at home also include, among others, several self-help aids that the individual can use at home to help him in his various activities like eating, bathing, cooking, dressing, toileting, the maintenance of his home, and so on. Persons with difficulty with communication can use electronic as well as non-electronic devices that would enable them to communicate better with other people associated with them. A computer that would work as an assistive device is an extremely important and useful tool for those who have any type of disabilities, and one example of this is the various input and output devices available for such people, like speech recognition software, Braille, and touch screens."
Abstract This paper explores learning disabilities that affect academic performance. Some of the more common forms of this category of learning disability is dyslexia (problems reading, or understanding what is written), dysgraphia (problems with handwriting or writing in a way the makes sense), and dyscalculia (problems with abstract math or calculations). The paper discusses how children with learning disabilities may be affected, how depression is often the primary cause of learning disabilities in children, treatment approaches, and the importance of the teacher in obtaining help for children with learning disabilities.
Table of Contents:
Understanding Learning Disabilities
Effects on the Home and School Environment
The Teacher and the Child with Learning Disabilities
Treatment and Help
From the Paper "The connection between learning disabilities and depression needs to be taken seriously by teachers. Students with poor reading skills are more likely to drop out of school and have a suicide rate that is three times that of the normally reading population. The school plays an important role in the development of the child's emotional development. Difficulties at school can lead to difficulties in the emotional, social and family functioning of the child. It is estimated that only 1/4 to 1/3 of the children needing school receive the needed treatment."
