Learning Disabilities
Learning Disability Assessment Process
The goal of the LD assessment is to determine if the scores meet the criteria of the Learning Disability definition. If appropriate, DSPS will then provide information about learning strategies and approve reasonable academic accommodations.
Note: You must be enrolled in one or more courses at ARC
- A 1.5 hour appointment to review your LD application and intake packet which is to be completed prior to your appointment
- Two assessment appointments (3 hours each)
- A 1.5 hour appointment to review results
If you are interested in Learning Disability Testing:
- Complete the Learning Disability Assessment Interest Form
- Email LD@arc.losrios.edu
- Inquire at the DSPS Front Desk
- Request a referral from your counselor/instructor
About the Learning Disabilities Program
Empowering students through assessment and accommodation for academic and career success.
Disability Services & Programs for Students (DSPS) provides specialized support for students with learning disabilities (LD). DSPS faculty/staff can provide learning disability assessments, study strategy sessions, and access to DSPS accommodations and counseling for those who qualify. There is no cost for learning disability assessment. Students must be currently enrolled in classes at ARC.
We respect your privacy and maintain the confidentiality of all student information pertaining to disability.
Definition
The California Community Colleges defines a student with a learning disability as having:
- Average to above-average intellectual ability; and
- Significant processing deficit(s); and/or
- Significant aptitude-achievement discrepancies
Characteristics
Common characteristics may include:
- Long-term difficulty in reading, writing, spelling, and/or mathematical concepts in contrast to average to superior skills in other areas
- Reading comprehension, tracking problems, and slow reading speed
- Takes two to three times longer to read and study than other people
- Severe difficulty spelling common words
- Difficulty with mathematical concepts including calculation, time, and space
- Verbal skills far exceed reading, spelling, and/or writing skills
- Difficulty taking notes and listening to a lecture at the same time
- Problems with memory and retention of information
- Confusion of visually similar letters, numerals, and words
- Illegible handwriting
Accommodations:
Academic Accommodations for Students with Learning Disabilities may include:
- Priority registration
- Extended time and distraction reduced area for tests
- Self-advocacy training and disability management
- Adaptive technology/Alternative media
- Note-taker
- Digital audio recorder/smart pen
Study Strategy Workshops and Sessions
• Student Success Workshops
• Individual Strategy Appointments
Language processing impacts learning skills in:
• Reading
• Written Language
• Mathematics
Recommended Study Strategy Course
Human Career Development (HCD) 382: Learning Strategies for College and Life This course presents academic strategies to compensate for learning disabilities in order to provide for success in other college course work.
Location: North side of the Welcome & Support Center
WorkAbility III (WAIII)
The WorkAbility III (WAIII) program helps students with disabilities explore career opportunities, connect to internships, and find a job.