Dyscalculia: Clinical manifestations, evaluation and diagnosis. Current Perspectives of educational intervention

Abstract

Learning difficulties and learning disorders are very frequent in schools nowadays, and they have been increasing in the field of mathematics. Such difficulties tend to be associated with other disorders such as dyslexia or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The present article aims at deepening our understanding, definition and detection of dyscalculia, along with reviewing current educational treatments. Since 1990, concerns about learning difficulties in the classroom have been made explicit in policies such as the Spanish Law on the General Ordering of the Education System (LOGSE). Likewise, the indicators, symptoms, and prevalence of dyscalculia have been gathered since the publication of the DSM-IV and the ICD-10. Nonetheless, its detection, identification and intervention are below expectation. Features such as the knowledge of its underlying neurobiological basis are fundamental for a posterior psychopedagogical approach. We conclude, first, that we can only rely on a few specific tools for its detection. Second, we highlight the relevance of the detection of its risk factors. Finally, regarding current perspectives of treatment, early detection and the interdisciplinary nature of the interventions are supported