Specific learning disability (SLD) refers to a disorder that affects one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using spoken or written language. SLD may show as a student having difficulty with reading, writing, spelling, speaking, listening, thinking, or solving math equations.
There are 8 specific academic domains of SLD, according to what skills they affect. They are:
- Oral expression
- Listening comprehension
- Written expression
- Basic reading skills
- Reading fluency skills
- Reading comprehension
- Mathematical calculation
- Mathematical problem solving
SLD may include different conditions, such as:
- Dyslexia
- Perceptual disabilities
- Brain injury
- Minimal brain dysfunction
- Developmental aphasia
SLD does not include learning problems primarily caused by:
- Visual, hearing, or motor disabilities
- Intellectual disability (ID)
- Emotional disturbance (ED)
- Environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage
- Limited English proficiency
AT for Specific Learning Disability
Students with specific learning disability may need assistive technology (AT) for:
- Writing/written composition
- Spelling
- Reading
- Math
- Study/organization skills
- Oral language/communication
- Seating/positioning/mobility
- Activities of daily living
- Recreation/leisure
- Pre-vocational/vocational
Learn more about assistive technology solutions here.
Resources
Dyslexia
Assistive Technology Solutions
CSDE Specific Learning Disability Eligibility Worksheet
CSDE-Specific Learning Disability and SLD/Dyslexia Overview
Connecticut Guidelines for Identifying Children with Learning Disabilities
Specific Learning Disability (SLD)/Dyslexia Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) (Revised 9-14-16)
FAQs
What is an assistive technology service?
An AT service is any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. This can include services such as evaluations, purchase, maintenance or adaptation of AT devices, and training.
My child has been recommended an AT device(s) in an IEP. Where can I find resources to help me understand how to use this tool(s)?
Start with your child’s PPT or other school team involved with the recommendation – they should be able to help. If you know the name of the tool, you can also try searching their website for tutorials, videos, and guides about the product.
Who is responsible for paying for my child’s AT device?
If AT is recommended in a student’s IEP or 504 plan, the school district will need to pay for and provide it. This includes any equipment, service, or programs associated with the AT. If AT is not included in your child’s IEP or 504 plan, you may apply for funding through grants, insurance, or other means. Contact your school district for more information.
If the school system purchases AT for my child, is it mine?
AT purchased by the school system belongs to the school. However, if the school finds it necessary to be used at home, the AT can be borrowed for use at home.
My child is moving to a new school. Can we keep the same AT device?
If the device is part of your child’s IEP, yes. However, it may not be the exact same device. It is possible that a new — but comparable — device will be provided at the next school.
What happens if my child’s AT device breaks?
If an AT device (acquired through an IEP) is broken at school, the school system will replace it. However, if a device is broken at home, the student’s family may be responsible for paying for a replacement.
My child is graduating high school soon. What will be done to make sure of his/her future success?
CT statutes allow school districts, regional educational service centers, the Department of Education, and all other state and local governmental education agencies to loan, lease, or transfer an assistive device to the student (or the student’s family). Plus, AT is required to be part of a graduating student’s transition assessments. However, parents’ advocacy on behalf of the graduating student is essential.
