Conclusion: Experimental groups skills in math and Music training group in scores of IQ had show increased. Some methods, such as bilateral brain training and Music training could be used to reduced symptoms of dyscalculia disorder.

As [...]]]> I came across this fascinating post by an Iranian researcher.  It turns out music education might significantly improve dyscalculia symptoms:

Conclusion: Experimental groups skills in math and Music training group in scores of IQ had show increased. Some methods, such as bilateral brain training and Music training could be used to reduced symptoms of dyscalculia disorder.

As you may know, I get really tetchy when people try to tell me that “music is math”. That being said, formal music training uses a lot of numerical concepts, and the (possible) cerebellar disruptions implicated in dyscalculia can create challenges in certain areas of music such as rhythm and timing.

I can’t wait for more research in this area. Meanwhile, I’m left to wonder whether I’d have been even worse at math if I hadn’t been studying music since I was seven.

I [...]]]>

Rickie Sugars is glad the study proves a link between learning disabilities and poor mental health.

I have no idea when this story ran in the Vancouver Sun, but it’s worth a look.  The Learning Disabilities Association of Canada has released a study on the long-term effects of undiagnosed learning disabilities.  The results?  Lasting psychological harm.

I can certainly attest to this.  My LD went undiagnosed until half way through my junior year of college.  By that point, I was at a top-20 liberal arts college, surrounded by people who were able to do the assignments AND the reading for all of their classes, and my self esteem was not only in the toilet but flushed into the sewers.  Since my disabilities are in areas that are the focus of most entry-level professional jobs (paperwork, scheduling, filing, and occasionally light bookkeeping as well) I essentially have no career to speak of.

As a result of this, I’ve been diagnosed with major depression and dysthymia, anxiety and panic disorder, stress-related asthma, and even a heart condition.  It’s taken my whole adult life to come to terms with this. I have had to rebuild myself from my foundations.  In short, friends, it has sucked, and it has sucked mightily.

Mad props to LDAC for taking this issue seriously, and for getting the word out.