Treatment of a student with nonverbal learning disorder – a case study

摘要

Nonverbal learning disorder (NLD) is a specific learning difficulty that is still relatively unknown in Slovenia. It is a neurological syndrome consisting of a set of deficits in the motor, organizational, emotional and social fields that have an impact on schoolwork and on other areas of pupils' lives. Despite average or in some cases even above-average cognitive abilities, pupils with NLD are often unsuccessful in carrying out tasks that require planning, organizing and quickly adapting to changes in time and space. udThe thesis is a case study of a student with nonverbal learning disorder. In the theoretical part I presented a group of pupils with learning difficulties and suggested various strategies to help them. I described the legally defined forms of learning assistance and certain adjustments for this group of children. I emphasized the role of the teacher and the role of parents in helping these students. Since the detection of NLD is still a big problem, I put greater emphasis on the early detection and comparison of NLD with similar problems. Such children are extremely verbally oriented and "talk like adults" at a very young age. Their parents and educators often think they are talented and fail to notice the presence of NLD. I presented different ways how to reduce deficits in motor, visual, spatial, organizational and social areas and how to reinforce their strengths. I proceeded with the proposal of adjustments that help the students in class and in their spare time.udIn the empirical part I presented a case study of a girl Ana, who is showing significant symptoms of NLD. As a social pedagogue myself, my main objective was to improve her social inclusion. Ana has also had deficits in some other areas (spatial and temporal organization, motor deficits). Developing these skills, which are most frequently encountered by special and rehabilitation pedagogues, also positively contributed to Ana´s social inclusion. Data were gained mostly by observation with participation, various measuring instruments and analysis of the achieved objectives. Results pointed out that by participating in a structured assistance program, with consistent and persistent work, adjustments, strategies and the use of didactic material success in various fields can be achieved. Positive changes are most noticeable particularly in the area of organization – she improved her spatial orientation and is better at her temporal organization; impressive progress in her social inclusion is also visible. Special attention was dedicated to exploring and developing Ana´s strengths since she belongs to a group of dual exceptional children. In the end I suggested the areas that, in my opinion, still need a more intense development in the future. The study has shown that children with NLD need a holistic treatment, since only intense team work can realize their potential. ud