FTCE Reading K-12 Practice Exam

What is meant by a learning disability?

1. High cognitive functioning in all areas

2. Difficulty in one or more specific cognitive processes

3. A complete absence of cognitive skills

4. General learning difficulties across all subjects

The correct answer is: Difficulty in one or more specific cognitive processes

A learning disability refers to a condition that significantly impacts an individual's ability to process information, which can manifest as difficulties in one or more specific cognitive functions, such as learning, reading, writing, or math. This means that while a person with a learning disability may have average or above-average intelligence, they struggle in particular areas due to the way their brain is wired to learn and process information. Choosing the option that describes difficulty in one or more specific cognitive processes accurately captures the essence of what a learning disability entails. It distinguishes these challenges from general cognitive impairment or uniform difficulties across all subjects, recognizing that individuals may excel in some areas while facing challenges in others due to their specific learning profiles.