Learning Disabilities
Information on Disabilities
Students diagnosed with learning disabilities may experience difficulty with comprehending reading, writing, mathematic calculations, listening and speaking. Since the disability is not discernable by looking at an individual, students with one or all of these processing deficits often complain that some people may perceive them as stupid or lazy. They are neither, but instead learn or process information differently.
Northeastern does not have a separate learning disability program but provides "reasonable accommodations" in compliance with federal mandates. Each psychological evaluation submitted to Student Disability Services must be complete. Each test report should be signed and dated by a psychologist, with the diagnoses and tests administered as part of the report. Services provided to the student must also be clearly depicted in the evaluation provided by the student to Student Disability Services. Further, in order to receive accommodations, the psychological evaluation submitted by the student cannot be any older than three years from the students' SDS self-identification date.
Helpful Hints for Students with Learning Disabilities to Follow When Services Are Needed:
- Academic modifications may be needed to facilitate learning; therefore, please be able to discuss your individual learning style, learning deficits and how to address them.
- Comprehension problems with mathematics should be discussed with SDS staff.
- Contact the SDS office if you experience poor organization, time management, outlining, exam preparation, recalling and/or memorizing problems.
- If you need the auxiliary recording technology for notetaking, extended time on exams, tutors, and/or readers please contact your assigned Student Disability Services Program Specialist.
- Academic accommodations are provided by Student Disability Services, contingent on the students supporting documentation.
- Academic supports are provided by the Learning Support Center or TRIO Student Support Services, which are located in the on the 4th floor of the Ronald Williams Library.