Tech support for people with a learning disability or difference

Many terms are associated with learning disabilities or differences, including conditions such as Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, Autism, ADHD and Tourette’s Syndrome. Previously classified as Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLDs), we now commonly group these conditions as Specific Learning Differences (SPLD).

What is the difference between learning differences and learning disabilities?

Using the term learning 'differences' reveals that many of the learning ‘difficulties’ that individuals experience come from how our education system works.

Learning differences

People who have a condition that we may now class as a learning ‘difference’ might feel that they experience difficulties learning new skills. So, telling them that it is due to their brain's normal and natural evolution won't help them overcome the genuine barriers to learning they are experiencing. 

Learning disabilities

Learning disabilities is a term currently used to refer to reduced intellectual abilities and difficulties with everyday tasks. It may result from a genetic condition such as Downs or Fragile X syndrome or be the result of acquired brain damage, such as an injury or stroke.

Help and advice for people with learning disabilities  

These resources were developed as part of the Digital Lifeline Project that delivered devices, data and support to digitally excluded people with learning disabilities. It was funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) and delivered by Good Things Foundation, AbilityNet and Digital Unite, supported by Learning Disability England, Voluntary Organisations Disability Group, self-advocates and other disability and digital inclusion organisations. 

• Read our FREE Factsheet on learning difficulties and computing
• We can help charities that provide support and information to people with learning disabilities - for more information see our Useful Links page