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By NCLD Editorial Staff
Published: March 9 2009
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You may be interested in the highly structured and physically active life offered in the military. Because military training involves programmed skill development with lots of practice and repetition, it may be a good option for people with certain kinds of learning disabilities. However, you'll want to be sure to carefully consider the impact your LD could have on your training decisions (for example, if you have difficulties with hand-eye coordination, you might want to steer clear of explosive and demolition training ).
To weigh the pros and cons of enlisting into military service, speak to people who have served in the military, and visit a service branch recruiter to find out more about:
- about military life in general
- if you will have flexibility in choosing specific training options
Military service can lead to immediate post-military employment or additional education at the college level. Tuition benefits can be an important benefit of military service. However, it is important for you to know that Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which guarantees rights and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, does not cover uniformed personnel branches of the military. No particular accommodations are made, except for civilian employees.
Tests Required
Before enlisting in any branch of the armed forces, you must take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). This series of tests measures your reading, spelling, math, mechanical, and general knowledge. The tests usually screen out individuals who cannot perform adequately in basic skill areas. One way to prepare for this exam is to get a workbook called Practice for the Armed Forces Test, by Solomon Wiener and E.P. Steinberg (Arco Publishing). This book is available in bookstores, online stores, and most public libraries. Another way to prepare for the ASVAB test is to join an online practice course. Keep in mind that even if you pass the exam, you are not necessarily guaranteed placement in an appropriate training program that will fit your strengths and needs.
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