Learning Differences

Many students ask if I have experience working with students with learning disabilities.  The simple answer is yes.  I do not like the term “learning disabilities.”  Instead, I prefer using the term learning differences.  Just because a student learns differently from another does not necessarily make it a disability.  I know many students do not care for being labeled in that way and the label can lead to some anxiety and often some embarrassment for these students.

               Students have unique differences to how they retain knowledge, and the trick is to figure out what works best for each student.  This takes some patience and some willingness to experiment with different techniques and methods.  Mainly it takes persistence.  When you have learning differences you will most likely have to work a bit harder than some of the other students.  This may not feel “fair” but hey, that’s life and it is just one of the things we do when things get tough, we work harder.

               The use of rhyme, rhythm, patterns and repetition are things you want to incorporate into your studying routine.  The brain loves these things, and they help with retention of information.  Another big item is having a very set schedule for your studying.  Many learning differences effect a student’s focus so sticking to a tight scheduling routine for your study habits is important. Learning how to self-monitor your study habits and your schedule is a very important skill to nurture for yourself.  This skill will give you results that go beyond the studying and into all areas of your life.

               Specifically, when it comes to studying for the MBLEx, begin with a focus on the basics (see The Language of Anatomese) as these things provide a strong foundation.  Once you have really mastered the basics then add new topics one at a time and work towards mastery before moving onto the next topic (see How to Eat an Elephant). Persistence pays.