This investigation focused on two major areas of investigation, (a) the differentiation of functions between the two cerebral hemispheres and (b) the effectiveness of electromyographic biofeedback versus relaxation tape input as methods of lowering levels of arousal. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the differential effects of EMG biofeedback and relaxation tape input to the right ear only, to the left ear only and to both ears in a strongly lateralized population. Subjects were 56 students recruited from undergraduate psychology classes. To be included in the study, subjects had to score at minimum, and Edinburgh Handedness Inventory Laterality Quotient of 68, Declie = Right 3, and had to demonstrate a right ear advantage on the Dichotic Listening Task for Words.

The research entails the early identification of neuropsychological learning disabilities in grade 1 learners. The researcher used the definition, criteria and characteristics of the DSM-IV for the identification of neuropsychological learning disabilities. The section of Learning Disabilities or Disorders includes Reading Disorders, Mathematic Disorder, Disorder of Written Expression and Learning Disorder Not Otherwise Specified. Learning Disabilities are diagnosed when the learner’s achievement on individually administrated, standardized tests in reading, mathematics or written expression is substantially below that expected for age, schooling and the level of intelligence. The learning problems, such as unsatisfied reading, mathematical or writing skills, significantly interfere with the learner’s academic achievement. Mathematic Disorder and Disorder of Written Expression most commonly occur as early as in the beginning or first grade, when formal reading instruction usually begin. Neuropsychological learning disabilities have a negative influence on the learner’s scholastic achievement, social development and emotional functioning. The research is focused on the grade 1 learners only. There is no differentiation regarding gender. In the literature study, the researcher observed five important components regarding neuropsychological learning disabilities, namely:- -- Definition, criteria and characteristics; -- Classification; -- Causes; -- The localization of the cortical areas of the brain associated with neuropsychological abilities; and -- The Neurofeedback. The Neurofeedback is based on the tenents that brain electrical activity reflects mental status and that the activity can be trained. The researcher also observed in the literature study certain risk factors regarding neuropsyhological learning disabilities, namely phonological awareness, analysis, synthesis, word recognition and syntax. The researcher considered these components in conjunction with the compilation of the neuropsychological test battery. The researcher could determine the follow findings with the assistance of the neuropsychological test battery:- -- The developmental delays which are present. -- The brain areas in which the cognitive abilities, associated with the developmental delays, are located. -- The limited functioning of brain wave activities which are associated with the cognitive abilities and developmental delays. -- The early idenitification of neuropsychological learning disabilities in grade 1 learners. The researcher found that the Neurofeedback programme is a useful contribution for the early identification of neuropsychological learning disabilities in grade 1 learners. / Thesis (PhD (Learning Support, Guidance and Counselling))--University of Pretoria, 2006. / Educational Psychology / unrestricted