Program

Special Education M.A.

Number of Pages

62

Year Approved

2022

First Advisor

Strand, Charles

Second Reader

Karin Farrington;

Abstract

Dyscalculia is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which makes it difficult for some individuals to automatically recognize numbers, estimate, perceive pictures, and order items and procedures correctly. It is similar to dyslexia, a common comorbidity, but it is focused on math difficulties rather than reading. Predispositions for dyscalculia may include differences in brain functioning, familial prevalence, and preterm birth. Dyscalculia persists through adulthood and is often resistant to most interventions. When a student with dyscalculia qualifies for special education services, it is most likely under the label specific learning disability in the area of math. As districts push to keep as many students in the general education classes as possible, there has been a rise of co-taught classrooms including special education teachers who work along with the academic content teachers. These teachers need increased training and knowledge, which can help them implement effective instruction and accommodations for students with dyscalculia. Effective strategies include hands-on math manipulatives, graphic organizers, an organizational system which is easy to understand, explicitly-taught concrete to abstract numerosity training, and accommodations to assessments that help students understand the questions. A chapter plan from a specific curriculum is included along with a list of accommodations that can help students with dyscalculia gain confidence in their math ability.

Degree Name

Special Education M.A.

Document Type

Masterʼs thesis

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