Learning Disabilities and Foreign Language Learning

LD Online - 1997

Why exactly do children with language-based learning challenges often struggle with learning a second language?

College psychologists Leonore Ganschow of the University of Miami, Ohio, and Richard Sparks of Mt. St. Joseph's College, came up with a theory that difficulties with foreign language acquisition stem from deficiencies in one or more linguistic codes in a student's native language system. These codes can be phonological, semantic or syntactic; Ganschow and Sparks' view is that most learners experiencing difficulty with foreign languages have problems with phonological awareness.

Based on this research, this article on LD OnLine by Robin Schwarz goes on to explain how learning-disabled students can be taught foreign languages. Among the recommendations is to adapt foreign language instruction courses according to principles of instruction known to be effective for LD students. Unfortunately, explains the article, this is not always possible.