Do you have students who fit one or more of these descriptions?
- Contributes well in seminars, but essays are disappointing
- Exam results are always much lower than predicted
- Has real difficulty with organisation and deadlines
- Takes a long time to produce written work
- Seems unable to take effective notes
- Spelling and punctuation are surprisingly erratic
These students could have dyslexia, and without suitable support they are likely to fail to fulfil their potential.
Investigation of possible dyslexic difficulties can help tutors and learning support staff to find the most effective ways to support these students.
It can also identify students who are eligible for additional help, perhaps through the Disabled Student Allowance for students in Higher Education.
If you think a student might have dyslexia, The Dyslexia Association can provide:
- A screening test suitable for post-16 learners
- Visual Stress Test
- A full diagnostic assessment for post-16 learners
- One to one tuition with a dyslexia qualified tutor
- Touch, Type, Read and Spell classes
There are strategies which a college or university can use to ensure that students with dyslexia are not disadvantaged. A Dyslexia Friendly College has the potential to improve the learning of all pupils. The Dyslexia Friendly College acknowledges that all students learn in different ways and provides opportunities for them to do so.
Colleges and universities have a duty under the Disability Discrimination Act to ensure that they do not discriminate against students who are disabled.
The Dyslexia Association can also provide tailored presentations on becoming a Dyslexia Friendly College.