Possible causes of dyscalculia

The scientists aren't sure yet of what the exact causes of dyscalculia are.

The following factors can play a role and are related to children as wel as adults. Some of these factors have to be excluded to be sure if it is a real dyscalculia or not.

1) Intelligence. This should be tested to exclude a low IQ, which is a different cause. However, having dyscalculia doesn't mean the IQ is low.

2) Learning disabilities. The way one thinks. How does one acquires the basic concepts of the subject?
- One is not able to automate the basic concepts of math.
(add, substract, multiply, divide)
- Does one (also) have dyslexia so reading itself is a problem?
(dyslexia is a read and write learning disabilitity).
- Does one recognise mathematical symbols? Is there a connection between seeing the number 5 and understanding the relevant amount?
- How is the ability developed to comprehend signs like +, -, =?

3) School education.
- Is the math methode, system good enough?
- Instruction problem: the teacher has to explain more or in a different way.

4)Short memory.
When this sort of memory is decreased or disordered, it is hard to remember calculations and achieve a good result.

5) congenital- or hereditary diseases. There are some indications pointing in that direction, but none of them is concrete yet.

6) a combination of all these factors.

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