This summer I'm considering taking a chemistry class at my local community college. The problem is I have dyscalculia. I know that because of my weak math skills I'm going to have a hard time with the class. Chemistry isn't required for my major. I'm simply interested in the subject. I'm willing to work hard (study more, go to tutoring - whatever it takes) but my fear is that my learning disability is too severe to overcome.

 

Should I go for it or would it be a huge mistake? Has anyone here been in a similar situation?

You should talk to YT2095, he's as useless as a tank made of wet tissue paper at maths yet is a very good chemist. i think he has also taken college level chemistry. search YT2095 and send him a PM but he'll probably post here at some point.

it may even be an advantage, in that many students when faced with a chemistry problem will immediately try to throw an equation at it, without ever attempting to actually understand the situation, and then they end up using the wrong values in the wrong places. I much prefer a student who's not so good at math but can understand a situation given in a question (or even bother to read the damned thing)

 

and of course, now you know a chemistry instructor :0)

Thanks for the replies. I always read stories about dyslexia success stories but I don't think I've ever come across a dyscalculia success story. It's good to know that it's at least possible to be successful. At this point I'm inclined to go ahead and take the class.

if you do, just come here when you have problems... we're always happy to help. Just don't expect it to be a fast process :0)