Understanding Intellectual Disability. By Dr Nadeem Ghayas
October 7, 2024
One of the friends in the same class has an intellectual disability, causing him to take more time to solve math problems compared to the other friend who solves them quickly. Similarly, they both have differences in understanding other subjects as well. Intellectual disability refers to when a person experiences difficulty in thinking, learning, or comprehending things in the same way as most people. This implies that they may struggle with problem-solving, memory recall, or acquiring new skills. It does not indicate that they are unable to learn; rather, they may require additional time and assistance to do so.
Individuals with intellectual disabilities may encounter challenges when it comes to daily tasks such as managing money, telling time, or following instructions. In an educational setting, they may require additional assistance from educators to grasp concepts. For instance, a student might benefit from more time to complete assignments or extra support in learning to read. It’s crucial to recognize that individuals with intellectual disabilities are capable of many things; they simply require extra assistance. This support can be provided by teachers, family members, and friends. For instance, educators can utilize specialized tools or activities to help students like Mia better understand their lessons, such as incorporating visual aids or engaging in enjoyable learning activities.
To put it briefly, an intellectual disability is the result of a different type of learning style. People with intellectual disabilities can develop, learn, and accomplish amazing things if they have support and understanding from others. Because each person is different, our world is truly special.