Learning Difficulties in Reading, Writing, and Mathematics among Primary School Children with Learning Problems in Assam and Manipur

Abstract

Inclusive education remains a central priority in India’s educational reform agenda, particularly in light of the Right to Education Act (2009) and Sustainable Development Goal 4, which emphasize equitable and quality education for all. Despite policy commitments, many primary school children continue to experience persistent learning difficulties, particularly in foundational academic domains such as reading, writing, and mathematics. The present study investigates the nature and extent of learning difficulties among primary school children identified with learning problems in Assam and Manipur. A quantitative descriptive research design was adopted. Eighty-four students from Classes I to V were assessed using a researcher-developed tool aligned with NCERT textbooks and grade-level learning outcomes. A three-point scoring system was used to categorize responses: unable to answer, able to answer with support, and answered appropriately. Descriptive statistical analysis was employed to identify grade-wise and gender-wise trends. The findings indicate that learning difficulties increase with grade progression, with Class V students demonstrating the highest difficulty in reading (50.65%) and writing (49.67%), while mathematics difficulty peaked in Classes IV (50.81%) and V (50.23%). Girls demonstrated slightly higher difficulty levels across domains compared to boys. The study highlights the urgent need for early identification, structured remediation, and inclusive pedagogical practices at the primary level.