Becoming a Mathematcian with a disability?

  • Thread starter Thread starter laydee
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenges faced by an individual with potential dyscalculia who aspires to become a mathematician. A psychologist suggested the possibility of dyscalculia based on test results, but opinions vary on the validity of this diagnosis and its implications for pursuing mathematics. Many contributors emphasize that basic arithmetic skills do not determine one's ability to engage with higher-level mathematical concepts, asserting that real mathematics is largely abstract and not reliant on arithmetic proficiency. The consensus encourages the individual to explore mathematics further, regardless of their arithmetic struggles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of dyscalculia and its implications on learning.
  • Familiarity with basic mathematical concepts and terminology.
  • Knowledge of educational accommodations for learning disabilities.
  • Awareness of the distinction between arithmetic and higher-level mathematics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research effective study techniques for individuals with dyscalculia.
  • Explore resources on abstract mathematics and its applications.
  • Investigate educational accommodations available for students with learning disabilities.
  • Consider enrolling in introductory mathematics courses to gauge interest and aptitude.
USEFUL FOR

Students with learning disabilities, aspiring mathematicians, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the relationship between learning disabilities and mathematical ability.

  • #31
Sign up for some courses, give it a shot, what have you got to lose? Besides time and money of course; but it always seems like one loses those.
 
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  • #32
laydee,

I'm diagnosed with a few mental "disabilities", in the current medical sense of the word. I'm interested in math, and there's a decent chance I'll became a mathematician. I'm very weak in any kind of computational math, but am exceptionally good with abstract math.

If you want to ask me any questions, feel free here or send me a message. I can tell you right now, when I was in high school I couldn't do the math (ditto for the stuff in the first 2 years of university). But from there on out it was fairly easy and extremely enjoyable for me. I would have never known if I'd just thought "I can't do this" and gave up when doing garbage calculus style math.
 
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