Cognitive processing (potential learning disabilities)

This is the critical factor in learning. A breakdown in how information is processed can be a critical barrier to learning.

The cognitive process involves a number of steps. First, information is gathered through various forms of input (auditory, visual, tactile). Next, an individual synthesizes and makes sense of the information that has been gathered. Lastly, the information evolves in the form of output. Output may occur through speaking, writing, choosing, or acting on the synthesis of the information gathered. It becomes obvious how barriers to learning can occur when people experience a deficiency in their ability to effectively use the information the senses have gathered. Cognitive processing barriers are often experienced by adults who may have potential learning disabilities. They can often help explain why a person is having trouble with learning and performance.

Areas to observe for common difficulties:

Auditory processing challenges affect how people interpret the information they hear and speak. Individuals with auditory processing challenges:

• Talk louder than necessary
• Have difficulty remembering a list or sequence
• Request that words or sentences be repeated
• Have limited ability to memorize information learned by listening
• Interpret words too literally
• Have difficulty hearing clearly in noisy environments.

Visual processing challenges affect how people interpret the information that they see. Individuals with visual processing challenges:

• Have difficulty accurately identifying information from pictures, charts, graphs, maps, etc.
• Lack the ability to organize information from different sources into one cohesive document
• Struggle to find specific information on a printed page (getting a number out of the phone book)
• Have difficulty remembering directions to a location.