DEMOS Project - Module: Dyslexia

True or False - Question 1 (continued)

Embarrassing problem

Although, describing dyslexia simply as a problem with reading is incorrect, it is important to remember that most dyslexic students read more slowly and with more difficulty than a person of similar age and educational attainment. This can be acutely embarrassing for a dyslexic student and teaching staff should avoid putting students in a situation where this might be highlighted e.g. reading out loud directly from a text.

How to help

Because students with dyslexia have problems comprehending written material and cannot work through as much reading as other students ways of reducing this burden need to be utilised. For example, if a reading list is being provided, the main texts should be highlighted. Perhaps certain chapters or sections of the books, containing the main arguments, can be recommended. Dyslexic students (and all other students!) should be encouraged to develop useful coping strategies for reading. Techniques such as the SQ3R (Survey, Question, 3 (Read, Recall, Review) method of reading could be brought to students' attention.

There are many study skills books available on the market that explain the best way to approach academic texts and a considerable number of websites are now available that offer advice and help for students :

Dyslexia specific resources

Davis Dyslexia Association International: http://www.dyslexia.com/

British Dyslexia Association: http://www.bda-dyslexia.org.uk/

Study Skills resources

Study Skills Online: http://www.brunel.ac.uk/~mastmmg/ssguide/sshome.htm

MMU Learning Support Unit: Practical Skills: http://www.mmu.ac.uk/lsu/studyskills/

Virginia-Tech: Study Skills Self-help Information: http://www.ucc.vt.edu/stdysk/stdyhlp.html

Study Skills & Learning Support: http://www.namss.org.uk/study.htm

True or False - Question 1 (continued)

Embarrassing problem

How to help

Dyslexia specific resources

Study Skills resources

Further reading