The following information is adapted from an “open letter” posted
on the website of Mastery Publications, a company based in North Carolina.
Educational Characteristics
Rate of Learning
- Learners with intellectual / developmental disabilities will experience
a slower rate of learning. They will learn, but the amounts may be less and
the pace will be slower. The tutor should be prepared for this.
- Learners may learn in spurts and then experience plateaus. The tutor should
capitalize on spurts, but avoid losing ground during plateaus (through repetition).
- Although repetition is essential, the tutor should vary her teaching to
avoid burnout and to prevent the learner from becoming bored.
Language Abilities
- Learners with intellectual / developmental disabilities may have poorer
language abilities, such that they have difficulty expressing themselves or
understanding what others are asking them to do. This requires patience and
concentration on the part of the tutor. Instructions must be given very clearly.
Abstractions
- Abstractions can be problematic. It may be difficult for these learners
to understand what they cannot see, touch, or experience. The tutor should
always make learning experiences as real as possible, using manipulatives
and concrete, touchable items.