Supporting Students with Learning Differences
We understand that there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to learning.
While it’s often said that great minds think alike, there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to learning. We’ve discovered that the best tutoring methods build a community of learners by cultivating critical thinking skills relevant not only to tests, but to all academic pursuits as students prepare for college. The path students with learning differences (LD) take to build these skills might look different – but doing so is just as important. If anything, I’ve observed that students with LD are much more self-aware and cognizant of their learning needs than their peers. For best outcomes, this academic maturity ought to be paired with a mentor or tutor relationship that can provide ongoing support when needed.
We employ a few key techniques when working with students with learning differences:
Real-Time Observation
By first watching students complete problems in their instinctive way, tutors better understand each student’s unique reasoning process. In a typical test prep lesson, most of the time is devoted to teaching new topics and test-taking strategies, with less time devoted to practicing these strategies – because students can conduct this reinforcement at home. However, students with learning differences often benefit from more in-session collaboration. By workshopping practice problems with a student during the lesson, tutors can more effectively adapt their lessons and techniques to the needs of the student.
Consistent PRACTICE
Replicating the procedures learned in a tutoring session on a real, timed test is a key component of test prep. Students who receive accommodations on the SAT or ACT – often 50% extra time or even 100% extra time on an already long exam – will be susceptible to both mental exhaustion and decision fatigue. Ensuring multiple opportunities to practice taking the test under these conditions will help develop stamina and anticipate related issues. (Additionally, tech solutions can help: we give all students an SAT or ACT timing watch. Practicing with these watches can help students self-pace.)
INTEGRATED Support
Parents and tutors must recognize that even with accommodations, standardized tests may not be the best way to showcase a student’s academic competencies. North Avenue encourages families to evaluate a student’s profile holistically so as to mentor them through not only test prep but all aspects of college readiness. Students would do well to remember that keeping their GPA high, writing a killer application essay, and learning self-advocacy, organization, and other beneficial study habits are just as important as achieving strong test scores!
We also regularly partner with other experts in the community to support parents and students in navigating the road to college. The Portland area has many seasoned college admissions counselors with experience helping helping parents of teens with LD, mental health conditions, or physical disabilities apply to college – and ensure success after admission as well.
If you or your student is affected by LD, get in touch to discuss how we can guide them to success on standardized tests and academic life.
