Summary of Specific Learning Disability Assessment 2024 [SLD Assessment]

Summary of Specific Learning Disability Assessment 2024

Speaker: Dr. Suresh Badmat, Professor of Psychiatry at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore.

Main Ideas and Concepts:

• Overview of the Gazette Notification (March 12, 2024):
  • The video discusses a recent notification regarding the assessment of Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD).
  • Emphasis on the formation of a subcommittee chaired by Dr. Shifali Gulati, focusing on developmental disorders.
• Tools for SLD Assessment:
  • A list of assessment tools is provided, distinguishing between copyrighted and freely available tools.
  • Key tools mentioned:
    • IQ Tests: Various tests including VSMS, Binet scales (all copyrighted) and the NII IQ test (freely available).
    • SLD Assessment Tools:
      • NIMAN index (copyrighted) and the Grade Level Assessment Device (GLAD) for children up to the fourth standard (freely available).
• Definition of Specific Learning Disability:
  • SLD is characterized by difficulties in processing language, which can manifest in reading, writing, spelling, and mathematical calculations.
  • Conditions include dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia.
• Assessment Process:
  • The assessment is conducted in four stages:
    • Screening: Done by teachers, starting at age 8.
    • Clinical Assessment: Conducted by pediatricians to identify any neurological or physical issues.
    • IQ Assessment: To determine if the child qualifies for SLD assessment based on IQ scores.
    • SLD Diagnosis: Final assessment using specified tools.
• Challenges and Critique of the Notification:
  • Concerns about accessibility and understanding of the assessment process, especially in rural areas.
  • The necessity for parents to be motivated and informed about SLD.
  • Limitations of assessment tools for older children and those who speak languages other than English or Hindi.
  • The potential for misuse of SLD certificates by individuals who do not genuinely qualify.
• Recommendations:
  • Training for government officials and mental health professionals.
  • Development of new assessment tools in multiple languages.
  • Addressing the waiting times for assessments and ensuring that resources are available for remedial measures.

Methodology/Instructions:

• SLD Assessment Process:
  • Screening:
    • Conducted by teachers using specified instruments.
    • Referral to the SL Screening Committee if issues are identified.
  • Clinical Assessment:
    • Pediatric evaluation to rule out other issues.
  • IQ Assessment:
    • Use appropriate tools based on the child's age and circumstances.
  • Final SLD Diagnosis:
    • Utilize either NIMAN battery or GLAD, with specific scoring criteria for certification.

Speakers/Sources Featured:

• Dr. Suresh Badmat (Primary Speaker)
• Dr. Shifali Gulati (Chairperson of the subcommittee on developmental disorders)

Notable Quotes

— 18:10 — « Though this gazet notification appears good, 800 plus pages any person will find it difficult. »

— 18:43 — « It is high time we need to design new tools in all languages with regard to sldd. »

— 20:11 — « SLD is becoming a tool which was supposed to help the children; people are making a business out of it. »

— 20:18 — « Many of them are misusing it, and those people who are in the metropolitan cities, who are powerful policymakers, are the children who are getting this SLD certificate. »

Category

Educational

Video