Why Early Detection for Struggling Students is Important

Why is Early Testing for Learning Disabilities Important? 

Seeking screeners and a comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation, when signs first arise, can help a struggling student uncover the root problems.  If they are given the needed support, they can develop compensatory learning

strategies, overcome areas of difficulties, and receive the needed accommodations and modifications. Specifically, testing can quickly uncover:

1. specific diagnoses that guide teachers and parents to the best remedial approach.
2. remedial support ideas that can help students quickly get back on track with classroom expectations.
3. social-emotional assistance so each student can feel good about themselves and their accomplishments.

What Kinds of Testing Can Be Done?

There are a number of kinds of testing:

1) Psychoeducational testing:  This comprehensive evaluation includes testing of a student's intelligence, cognitive processing, psychosocial/social-emotional development, and areas of academic achievement. This is often done to determine if there is any type of disability. Parents of school-aged children can request testing through their local, public school system, or they can pursue outside testing from a local professional such as a neuropsychologist.  Although outside evaluations can be quite costly, if you do your homework and find accomplished testing professionals, you can get results that can help pave a way to academic success. The International Dyslexia Association offers a provider directory.

2) Academic achievement tests: These measurements determine a student's academic progress or areas in need of instructional attention.  We offer two such tests: The Good Sensory Learning Reading Assessment and The Good Sensory Learning Spelling Assessment and Remedial Approach. 

3) Entrance exams: Private schools and colleges require testing for the admissions process.

• Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE)
• Secondary School Admissions Exam (SSAT)
• High School Placement Test (HSPT) often used by Catholic schools for entrance into high school

Clearly, early testing can help assure that struggling learners can get the needed support so that they can reach their true academic potential.  

Cheers, Dr. Erica Warren

Dr. Erica Warren is the author, illustrator, and publisher of multisensory educational materials at Good Sensory Learning. She is also the director of Learning to Learn and Learning Specialist Courses.

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