What determines the specifics of a learning disability for certifications?

The specifics of a learning disability for certifications are primarily determined by diagnostic test results. These test results provide objective evidence of the learning disability, which is crucial for ensuring that applicants receive the appropriate accommodations they need during the certification process. Diagnostic tests are conducted by qualified professionals and can include assessments that evaluate cognitive abilities, academic skills, and the presence of specific learning challenges. This formal assessment is generally more reliable than personal testimony or subjective evaluations, as it provides a standardized measure to understand the individual's needs.

While the certified instructor's evaluation and personal testimony can offer context and additional information about the applicant's experience, they are supplementary to the formal diagnostic tests that validate the existence and specifics of the learning disability. Similarly, a written request for accommodations, while important for initiating the process of obtaining support, does not inherently provide the necessary factual basis regarding the learning disability itself. Thus, diagnostic test results serve as the foundational element in formally recognizing and accommodating learning disabilities in the certification context.