Synonyms in a broader sense
- Dyscalculia
- Arithmasthenia
- Acalculia
- Learning impairment in the mathematical field
- Learning difficulties in mathematics lessons
- Problems in mathematics
Definition
The term “dyscalculia” comes from the Greek. The prefix “dys” means difficult, difficult, “kalkulie” on the other hand: to calculate, to consider, to consider. Just like dyslexia, dyscalculia is a partial performance disorder that can occur with normal or above average intelligence.
Dyscalculia includes problems in mathematical fundamentals, such as basic arithmetic. The delimitation of dyscalculia is often difficult, since problems in arithmetic also occur in children with general underachievement and problems in other subjects, which do not fall within the scope of dyscalculia in the strict sense. Dyscalculia and dyscalculia are similar to dyslexia, which is only one part of LRS (= literacy). The dyslexia comprises the entire problem area in
Frequency
Many children show problems in arithmetic (mathematics in general), only a few, estimated 5 – 10%, fall into the area of dyscalculia. The question of gender distribution cannot be clearly assessed. Studies that examined the gender distribution came to different results.
History
The content of mathematics teaching and the way it is taught has been developed over centuries. The origins of all arithmetic can be found in the 3rd century BEFORE Christ, both with the ancient Egyptians and the Babylonians. In the beginning arithmetic was a strict following of rules without questioning a concrete why. Questioning the why became more and more important and is today – especially after the publication of PISA – study results of special importance. To learn more about the historical development, please click on History of Mathematics.
Causes
Just as with dyslexia and dyslexia, a multi-causal approach is assumed. On the one hand, this means that the causes of the problems in arithmetic are broadly diversified and, above all, interrelated. 1. social factors: 2. constitutional causes:
- Causes within the family (conflicts within the family, cultural differences, lack of experience, unfavorable living conditions)
- Causes in the area of school (e.g. school organizational deficiencies, teacher – student – relationship etc. )
- Neurotic – psychogenic causes (e.g. : anxiety, fear – defense mechanisms, aggressive behavior, apathy)
- Indications of genetic inheritance
- Minimal cerebral dysfunction (MCD)
- Evidence of another organization of cerebral activity
- Weaknesses in perception
- Gender-specific differences
- Developmental deficits
- Dyscalculia due to lack of practice