Approximately 50% of Arabic-speaking schoolchildren in Israel are suspected to have learning disabilities. These children face lifelong stigmatization, immense academic difficulties, and even expulsion from the formal education system. The unique characteristics of the Arabic language such as diglossia, orthographic and morphological complexity, diacritics and alterations in letter form based on location in the word contribute to serious delays and failures in reading and writing. In addition, cultural, societal and familial aspects inherent in the Arab sector also constitute important factors in understanding the learning difficulties existing within this population. The Unit for the Advancement of Learning Disability Research in the Arabic Language was established in September 2008 to explore the subject of learning disabilities among the Arabic-speaking population and to promote the expansion of its diagnosis and treatment within Arabic-language schools. This unit is currently carrying out projects on individual diagnostic testing, teacher training and intervention, as well as field outreach. For information on these projects, click on the links below:
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The Edmond J. Safra Brain Research Center for the Study of Learning Disabilities, University of Haifa
Phone: 972-4-828-8093 | Fax: 972-4-828-9835 | ejsafra@edu.haifa.ac.il
Phone: 972-4-828-8093 | Fax: 972-4-828-9835 | ejsafra@edu.haifa.ac.il