This topic will form a chapter in an undergraduate textbook to be published early Spring 2019.
Dual and multiple exceptionality (DME) is becoming a significant topic in the field of SEN. There has been much research into supporting and teaching for special needs, but a number of these individuals often have high ability in other aspects of their learning and vice versa. Thus, this high ability is frequently masked by the presence of a learning difficulty, disability or disorder and causes underachievement in school and life.
Often these individuals are functioning at a similar level to their peers although but the giftedness is missed.
Common difficulties seen alongside giftedness include:
Asperger’s syndrome
ADD/ADHD
dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia
auditory and visual processing disorders
sensory processing disorders, including dyspraxia
non-verbal learning disorder.
Key points will address issues such as:
Identifying a DME child
How to spot a DME child in the classroom
Supporting a DME child’s strengths and special needs
A potential strategy to support the DME child in school