A Child with a 'Trait' of LD in Mathematics - A Case Study (III)- : Learning Possibilities and Some Problems

This article first shows that even children with learning disabilities (LD) can successfully acquire algorithm for multiplication, and second what kinds of difficulties they face. For this purpose, the writer gives a remedial teaching to a subject child, considered as a global-type LD child. At previous addition and subtraction phases, the LD child has achieved the same learning level as non-LD children are expected to achieve. As a sequel to the phases, the writer is going to argue that the global-type LD child is also capable of understanding and employing multiplication as long as he goes through a learning process of 'Real World', 'World of Models', 'World of Schemas', and 'World of Mathematics.' The current results confirm that meaningful learning, such as the Suido-Method, is more effective than rote learning, such as drill-and-practice lessons. The difficulties manifested in the learning-phases of addition and subtraction are also observed in the learning-phase of multiplication. The difficulties that the subject child faces are helpful for teachers to plan lessons for LD children. It is also observed again that the learning process according to theGeneral-to-Particulardiagram deepens children's understanding. Furthermore,slow-learningshown by the subject child suggests a possibility to develop another curriculum in Mathematics education