Dyscalculia

What is dyscalculia?

Dyscalculia is a neurodevelopmental learning condition that affects a person's ability to perform mathematical tasks.

People with dyscalculia may have difficulty with basic arithmetic, number sense, and mathematical reasoning, despite having normal intelligence and adequate instruction.

Individuals with dyscalculia may have difficulty understanding and remembering mathematical concepts, such as number lines, fractions, and equations.

They may also have difficulty with basic arithmetic operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Dyscalculia can also impact other areas, such as telling time, understanding money, and estimating quantities.

How to support colleagues with dyscalculia

Here are ten tips you can use to support a colleague with dyscalculia:

1. Offer alternative methods for completing mathematical tasks, such as using a calculator or a spreadsheet. Encourage your colleague to find the methods that work best for them.
2. Arrange regular short meetings to give your colleague a chance to check on progress and priorities as this will help reduce their anxiety and boost their confidence.
3. Use reminders, calendars and timers as sharing these tools with your colleague can help them keep on their schedule.
4. Avoid asking for figures to be given on the fly but instead, ask for them to be given in written form after a meeting so any errors can be rectified.
5. Be patient as dyscalculia can make it difficult for your colleague to perform mathematical tasks. Allow them extra time to complete their work.
6. Allow them to watch and listen when learning new skills at work. Be prepared to revisit new tasks many times as it can take time for new skills to be absorbed.
7. Provide clear and concise instructions for tasks and projects that involve mathematical calculations. Use examples or diagrams to make instructions easier to follow.
8. Use visual aids such as graphs or charts, to help your colleague understand complex mathematical concepts or data.
9. Be understanding as dyscalculia can be frustrating for your colleague, so it's important to be understanding and supportive. Encourage them to ask questions and offer help when needed.
10. Provide training and support to help your colleague improve their mathematical skills. Consider providing them with additional training or mentoring opportunities.

Further resources on dyscalculia

• British Dyslexia Association website
• A handbook for embracing neurodiversity in the creative industries "Creative Differences"

The contents of this page was provided by Tristan Hunt.