Dyslexia

About the course

Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty affecting approximately 10% of the population. Ranging from mild to severe, it can manifest in many different ways and in our literacy driven society it is well recognized that dyslexia is a major risk factor for underachievement and limited opportunities. This highlights the importance of early identification and intervention and high quality, evidence-based teaching practices and supports.

This course provides a comprehensive and detailed level of knowledge and understanding of the learning difficulties associated with dyslexia, and equips teachers with the confidence and skills to identify and support students at an individual level, within the classroom and at a whole-school level. It promotes the early recognition of possible learning difficulties, and examines best practice approaches to inclusive teaching for students with dyslexia across the age range. You will also learn how to recognise the strengths and the positive dimensions of dyslexia.

Who is this course aimed at?

This course is aimed at teachers, psychologists and others with a professional interest in dyslexia. It may also be helpful for parents interested in learning about appropriate educational provision for children and young people with dyslexia.

Approved by the Department of Education

This course is approved by the Department of Education.

Three EPV days will be allowed for primary school teachers who take the course during the summer term. Please note this provision applies only to the summer term as per Department guidelines.

This course has four terms each year, Spring, May/June, Summer & Autumn.

This course examines the nature of dyslexia and literacy difficulties in light of the latest research and key theories of reading development. Debates and controversies are explored and the implications of current research for practice are described. You will learn about best practice approaches to assessment, identification and screening and become familiar with a range of assessment methods.

The course also examines how to create a ‘dyslexia friendly environment’ at a whole-school level, which reduces barriers to learning and positively values the strengths and talents of learners. The social and emotional impact of dyslexia is also explored and the voices of both students and families are included to give you a first-hand sense of their lived experience. You will develop a working knowledge of evidence-based instructional approaches to meeting the individual needs of students with dyslexia. We also review and evaluate specific teaching programmes for dyslexia and literacy difficulties across the age range. This course will give you the knowledge, understanding and skills to respond to the needs of learners with dyslexia to ensure they can reach their full potential.

Highlights

• Gain a working knowledge of indicators of dyslexia across the age range
• Learn how to assess individual learning difficulties arising from dyslexia, plan learning goals, and monitor responses to interventions.
• Implement evidence-based approaches and techniques to help students overcome barriers to literacy and achieve their potential
• Learn how to develop Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) for your students with dyslexia
• Learn how to develop inclusive whole-school approaches to dyslexia and learning support
• Understand the strengths and the positive dimensions of dyslexia
• Enjoy rich opportunities for collaboration with our online network of learners and tutors.
• Save printable course materials and resources for future reference.