How can you tell if your advisee has a learning disability or ADHD?
Adapted from: Reynol Junco, Lockhaven University & Marianne Karwacki, Penn State University NACADA 2000 Presentation
Statistics
-Between 1978 and 1998, the percentage of students with disabilities enrolling at institutions of higher learning tripled.
-In 1998, 9.4% of all entering freshmen reported having a disability.
- Students with learning disabilities comprised the largest group of incoming freshman with disabilities at 3.5%. (Henderson, 1999).
Learning Disabilities
-A significant discrepancy in one or more areas of ability and achievement.
-Determined through extensive psychological testing.
-Most students with learning disabilities are diagnosed before entering college.
A person with a learning disability is an individual who has:
-An average to above average intellectual ability, but is achieving significantly below that measured ability in one or more areas (e.g., reading, writing, mathematics)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
-A neurobiological disability that interferes with a person’s ability to sustain attention or focus on a task and to delay impulsive behavior. It is characterized by inattention impulsivity, and in some cases hyperactivity.
-The core symptoms of ADHD are experienced by everyone to some extent ( Gordon & Murphy, 1998)
Students with Academic Difficulties
-Trouble taking tests- students study, however, cannot earn a grade that reflects the time and effort they put into studying. Format of the test is sometimes an issue ( essay vs. multiple choice)
-Can’t concentrate- can’t focus on their work (reading homework, etc) for more than five minutes at a time.
-Trouble taking notes- Unsure of what to write in their notes, etc.
-Low grades- my GPA is not what I (or my parents) think it should be.
-Students with “prior diagnoses” – I was diagnosed with ADHD when I was two years old.
Variables affecting academic performance
-Pledging to a sorority/fraternity or other extracurricular activities.
-Time management – out with friends on a Wednesday night before an exam, job, etc.
-Alcohol and drug usage.
-No clear rationale for being in college (“I just thought I would always come to college”).
-Psychological issues.
-Poor study skills/habits.
-Difficulties with transition (independence, etc.)
-Amount of time spent studying- the 2 hours per 1-hour class rule is recommended.
-Class attendance.
A referral for testing for ADHD may be appropriate if…
-There is a long-standing pattern of related difficulties (since elementary school).
-The student has a family history.
-If you have ruled out the variables affecting academic performance.
*Especially ADHD “rule-outs”
Summary
- Not everyone with academic problems has a disability.
-Take the time to listen to your students.
-Know your campus and community resources.
-If you have a doubt, ask your disability support staff or colleagues at other universities.