Discalculia na sala de aula de matemática: um estudo de caso com dois estudantes

Abstract

This study, entitled Dyscalculia in the Mathematics classroom: a case study with two students, is presented as a preliminary study of the neurological aspects related to the difficulty of learning in mathematics, particularly the Dyscalculia disorder. Firstly, we made a questionnaire to teachers to investigate that it is possible problems in mathematical learning are due to neurological factors. After that, we made another questionnaire with health professionals, to get information on the identification process, treatment forms, habilitation proposals, guidelines and proposals for the math teacher with the dyscalculia student. Finally, two students perform a set of problem exercises in order to identify and recognize characteristic features of Dyscalculia, and research activities with a playful profile, used as pedagogical intervention tools to rehabilitate students with Dyscalculia and those with learning problems in mathematics. The analysis sought to identify the characteristics or symptoms by problem situation within the teaching context. The study is based on readings by several theorists, such as Bastos (2008, 2016), Farrell (2008), Díaz (2011), Shalev et al. (2004, 2005, 2007), Campos (2014), among others. From the questionnaire with the teachers, it was possible to contact them, as they do not distinguish and do not recognize the terms learning difficulties, disorders and learning disorders. Then, they were not able to identify that the causes of the learning deficit in mathematics can also be attributed to neurological dysfunctions, such as the learning disorder, Dyscalculia. Experts have acknowledged this disorder, but pointed out that this theme has still been in the process of researched and that problems associated with learning difficulties are sometimes similar and overlapping, leading to difficulties in evaluation and identification. From the results, that was obtained from the analyzes of the problem exercises, it was verified that one of the students diagnosed as dyscalculia presented strong characteristics of Dyscalculia. The other, which did not present an award, has also presented significant features, surprising. It is important to point out that this result is initial, and there is a need for an investigation with specialists. The results have also allowed us to affirm that the deficits presented in the subjects were not necessarily identical, but qualitatively diversified. The study has also highlighted the importance of teachers to know the difficulties of the students so that they have a planning and a teaching direction that corresponds to them.