Ch.+9+resources

chapter 9 Medical Aspects of Learning Disabilities Learning Objectives 1. Discuss the value of knowing the medical aspects of learning disabilities. 2. Describe the major structures of the brain. 3. Describe the neurological examination, including the examination for soft signs. 4. Describe some of the findings of brain research and its relationship to learning disabilities. 5. Describe the recent findings from functional magnetic resonance imaging studies. 6. List the major medical specialties involved with learning disabilities and explain the contribution of each medical specialty. Key Terms AND Definitions Students should take note of the following terms as they appear in this chapter. Students who have difficulty should refer to the glossary in Appendix E of the text or to the text page on which the term is discussed. audiology A discipline that spans a number of functions, including the testing and measurement of hearing, the diagnosis and rehabilitation of those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, the scientific study of the physical process of hearing, and the broadening of knowledge and understanding of the hearing process. central nervous system The organic system comprising the brain and the spinal cord. cerebral hemisphere One of the two halves (the right hemisphere and the left hemisphere) that make up the human brain. computed tomography A computerized series of X-rays that build a three-dimensional image of the brain. dyslexia A severe reading disorder in which the individual cannot learn to read or does not acquire fluent and efficient reading skills. Related to a neurological dysfunction. functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) A noninvasive procedure that allows neuroscientists to view regions of the human brain as the person is engaged in an activity. genetics of learning disabilities Research on the inheritability of dyslexia through genetic studies and twin studies. lateral preference A tendency to use either the right or left side of the body or to favor using the hand, foot, eye, or ear of one side of the body. neurology A medical specialty concerned with the development and functioning of the central nervous system. neuropsychology A discipline that combines neurology and psychology and studies the relationship between brain function and behavior. neurosciences Disciplines that are involved with the study of the brain and its functions. ophthalmology A medical specialty concerned with the physiology of the eye, its organic aspects, diseases, and structure. otology The medical specialty responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of auditory disorders. positron-emission tomography (PET) A procedure that permits one to measure metabolism within the brain. postmortem anatomical studies Autopsy studies of the brains of persons with a history of dyslexia. psychiatry The medical study that considers the complex relationships among organic factors, emotional elements, and mental health. soft neurological signs Minimal or subtle neurological deviations that some neurologists use as indicators of learning disabilities. Major Points 1. The brain structure has several areas. What are they? 2. What kinds of studies have been done on dyslexia? 3. What kinds of neurological exams are conducted on children with learning disabilities? 4. What medical specialties are involved with learning disabilities and related disorders? =Suggested Activities= 1. Examine the case of a student who is on medication. Which medical specialist examined this student and prescribed the medication? 2. Look at the records of students with learning disabilities in your school to determine the students who are taking medications. What medication is each student taking? The school nurse might be helpful in this activity. 3. Find an article reporting on recent brain research. Write a report on this article. 4. Interview a parent whose child has seen a medical specialist. How does the parent feel the medical diagnosis and treatment affected the child?