NAME: CHARITY MBOGO
SCHOOL: EDUCATION
DEPARTMENT: EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY
ADMISSION N.O: E136/CE/10063/2020
UNIT CODE: EPS 211
UNIT TITLE: PSYCHOLOGY OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
TASK:
a) Giving appropriate Examples, explain the five categories of Exceptional learners
(5mks)
b) Explain symptoms which may make one suspect the following conditions in a
learner (10mks)
i) Giftedness
ii) Hearing impairment
c) Explain ways in which physical disabilities may affect learning (5mks).
a) The Five Categories of Exceptional Learners
Exceptional learners are students who differ significantly from the norm in terms of
ability or learning needs. Below are five categories, with examples:
1. Gifted learners
These students excel in intellectual abilities or specific talents. For example, a child who
solves complex math problems at an advanced level for their age is considered gifted
(National Association for Gifted Children, 2023).
2. Learners with learning disabilities
Students in this category struggle with acquiring academic skills despite having average
or above-average intelligence. For instance, a child with dyslexia may have difficulty
reading despite being otherwise capable (Hallahan et al., 2022).
3. Learners with intellectual disabilities
These students have limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors. A student
with Down syndrome who may require simplified lessons and additional support is an
example (American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 2023).
4. Learners with physical disabilities
Physical disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, may limit a student's ability to move or write
and require assistive devices (Smith et al., 2021).
5. Learners with sensory impairments
This group includes students with hearing or vision impairments. For example, a student
who uses sign language to communicate due to hearing loss falls into this category
(Turnbull et al., 2018).
b). Explain symptoms which may make one suspect the following conditions in a learner
(10mks)
i). Giftedness
A gifted learner is a student who demonstrates significantly higher-than-average intellectual
ability, creativity, or leadership skills. The following symptoms may indicate giftedness:
1. Exceptional Problem-Solving Abilities
Gifted learners can analyze complex problems, think critically, and find innovative solutions
beyond their age level.
They may enjoy puzzles, riddles, and logical challenges.
2. Advanced vocabulary and early reading skills
They tend to develop language skills faster than their peers, using sophisticated vocabulary in
conversations.
Many gifted children start reading earlier than expected and can comprehend texts meant for
older children.
3. Intense curiosity and a strong desire for knowledge
Gifted learners often ask many questions about a wide range of topics.
They seek out information beyond what is taught in class, sometimes engaging in independent
learning.
4. Preference for challenging and creative tasks
They enjoy tasks that require original thinking and problem-solving, such as creating stories,
designing experiments, or exploring new ideas.
Routine or repetitive tasks may bore them quickly.
5. Social or emotional sensitivity beyond their age
Gifted children often show a deep understanding of emotions and social issues, sometimes acting
more mature than their peers.
They may struggle with making friends because they prefer intellectual discussions over typical
peer conversations.
Academic implications
Gifted students may underperform if they are not given enough intellectual stimulation.
Teachers should provide enrichment activities to keep them engaged.
ii) Hearing impairment
Hearing impairment refers to partial or complete loss of hearing ability, which can impact
communication, learning, and social interactions. The following symptoms may indicate
hearing loss:
1. Difficulty following verbal instructions
A child with hearing impairment may struggle to respond appropriately to spoken commands,
especially in noisy environments.
They may misunderstand instructions or require repetition.
2. Delayed language or speech development
Children with hearing loss often experience slower language acquisition due to limited exposure
to sounds and speech patterns.
They may have difficulty pronouncing certain words correctly.
3. Frequently asking for repetition during conversations
A child may frequently say "What?" or "Can you repeat that?" during discussions.
They might need louder speech or clearer articulation to understand spoken language.
4. Watching speakers' lips intently while they talk
Many children with hearing impairment rely on lip-reading and facial expressions to understand
speech.
They might position themselves close to the speaker or turn their head for better listening.
5. Poor performance in auditory-based tasks
They may struggle with activities that require listening, such as spelling tests, phonics lessons, or
oral assessments.
Their academic performance may suffer, particularly in language-based subjects.
Academic implications
• Teachers should ensure that hearing-impaired students are seated near the front of the
classroom.
• Visual aids and sign language can support their learning experience.
c). Explain ways in which physical disabilities may affect learning ( 5 marks)
Physical disabilities can create various challenges for learners, including:
1. Limited mobility: A student using a wheelchair may face difficulty accessing certain
areas of the school, impacting their participation in activities (Smith et al., 2021).
2. Writing challenges: Conditions like arthritis or muscle weakness can hinder
handwriting, necessitating assistive technology.
3. Fatigue: Physical disabilities may lead to frequent fatigue, reducing focus and
participation in class.
4. Social barriers: Students may feel isolated due to their disabilities, affecting group work
and social interactions.
5. Adaptation needs: They may require customized lesson plans or equipment to fully
engage in learning (Hallahan et al., 2022).
References
American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. (2023). Intellectual
disability definition and diagnosis.
Hallahan, D. P., Kauffman, J. M., & Pullen, P. C. (2022). Exceptional learners: An
introduction to special education. Pearson.
National Association for Gifted Children. (2023). What is giftedness?
Northern, J. L., & Downs, M. P. (2023). Hearing in children. Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.
Pfeiffer, S. I., & Stocking, V. B. (2020). Identifying gifted students: Best practices.
National Gifted Education Press.
Smith, R. W., Finn, M., & Dowdy, C. A. (2021). Assistive technologies in education.
Routledge.
Turnbull, A., Turnbull, H. R., & Wehmeyer, M. L. (2018). Exceptional lives: Special
education in today's schools. Pearson.
