Protected: ADHD and Dyslexia are Not Metaphors for Laziness or Stupidity

Submitted by Judy Hanning on Mon, 2017-02-06 02:00
The stigmatization of students who have learning difficulties is a problem in British schools. Even when a student is fortunate enough to receive a formal diagnosis, they may still experience prejudice from teachers who have little understanding of common conditions such as ADHD and dyslexia.

“Once there is actual evidence that all that daydreaming in class and spelling “exaggeration” like “igzajjerayshon” is a genuine issue rather than a lack of trying or intelligence, you can get a little ‘support’ to make up for it. However, even in spite of the clear evidence, the stigma from authority figures continues in subtle ways”.

Extra time, support and learning aids can put these students on a level playing field where they can survive academically. Unfortunately, teachers often see this extra help as an unfair advantage for students who are just lazy or stupid. Understanding and empathy from teachers would go a long way toward lessening a struggle that continues 24/7, and in all areas of life.
Extra time or use of a computer for the purpose of an exam should be viewed as something of a necessity, not a prize to be won. After all, it is necessary for those of us who must read the exam question for a significantly longer time than others, or are cursed with handwriting speed well below the national average.
~ Edie Walwyn

Key Takeaways:

1
Teachers sometimes describe students with dyslexia or ADHD as lazy, arrogant, or easily distracted.
2
In reality, ten percent of the population has dyslexia.
3
Teacher’s flippant attitude toward learning issues sometimes stem from a lack of education on them.
Read the full article here:
https://www.dyslexiadaily.com/blog/not-metaphors-for-laziness-and-stupidity