Mathematics Solutions: An Introduction to Dyscalculia. Part A: How to Identify, Assess and Manage Specific Learning Difficulties in Mathematics. By Jan Poustie pound;30. Part B: How to Teach Children and Adults who have Specific Learning Difficulties in Mathematics. By Jan Poustie. pound;25 Taunton: Next Generation Tel: 01823 289559.
The range of books on the subject of dyslexia is so extensive as to be bewildering while, in contrast, very little has been written about dyscalculia. This makes the publication of these books particularly welcome. The author herself has “dyspraxia, dyscalculia and attention deficits” and illustrates the issues by reference both to her personal and professional experiences. The books also draw on the work of Professor Mahesh Sharma and Dr Steve Chinn.
Part A, which the author sees as important background to the second volume, has been “designed as a reference manual which explains how the different conditions found within (and associated with) the SPLD Profile affects the acquisition of mathematics”.
Part B is intended as a practical teaching manual. This division is flexibly applied and readers of Part A will find ideas and leads to follow up, partly through the extensive annotated list of references. The overview of conditions attempts to be comprehensive, but there are times when it includes frustrating generalisations. In its favour, it does stress a holistic view of the child and emphasises the role that factors such as self-esteem can play. Use of the profiles in the appendix would help parents, learners and teachers gain valuable insights.
The second volume provides a range of practical suggestions and is rich in examples, strategies and details of materials. In many ways, these are starting points with indications about how they can be followed up elsewhere. Some of this detailed material will date quickly, so future editions may be necessary.
These two books are important additions to a sparsely studied area and offer new understandings and knowledge. However, they cannot alone provide an in-depth, comprehensive coverage of developmental dyscalculia. Their true value may be to act as catalysts stimulating interest in this neglected area.
Sue Pearson
Sue Pearson is a lecturer at the school of education, University of Leeds
