Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia)

What is Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia)?

The word 'dyslexia' is of Greek origin and means 'difficulty with words'. Dyslexia includes a range of learning difficulties where a person of normal intelligence has persistent and significant problems with reading, writing, spelling and sometimes mathematics and musical notation.

What are the characteristics of Dyslexia?

The majority of dyslexic difficulties are caused by problems in the language area, for eaxample, a phonological disorder where difficulties are experienced in processing sequences of sounds within words. Auditory (listening) memory is also often affected.

A smaller group of dyslexics seem to have visual problems; they find it difficult to remember the appearance of words or get confused about the sequence.

Most forms of dyslexia are developmental, that is to say, they first become evident during childhood and seem to be specific to the individual.

Possible difficulties caused by dyslexia include:

• hesitant or slow reading and writing
• misreading which in turn makes understanding difficult
• forming letters and figures the wrong way round
• difficulty with sequences
• poor organisation or time management
• erratic spelling
• poor memory and concentration
• difficulty organising thoughts clearly

In many cases, people with dyslexia often have specific strengths, which may include innovative thinking, excellent troubleshooting, creativity, lateral thinking and intuitive problem solving.


Is there a treatment to arrest the progression of Dyslexia?

It is not possible to prevent dyslexia but early recognition can help. With proper diagnosis and tailored educational methods, students with dyslexia can achieve their full academic potential and go on to enjoy very successful careers.

Diet and practical strategies (such as Assistive Technology or low vision aids) can also help.


Are there any useful teaching and learning strategies for people with this learning difficulty?

For information on teaching and learning strategies, click here

Dyslexia.Com
http://www.dyslexia.com/∞

Dyslexia Association of Ireland
Suffolk Chambers
1 Suffolk Street
Dublin 2
Ireland
Tel: 01 6790275/6
Fax: 01 6790273
Email: info@dyslexia.ie
Web: http://www.dyslexia.ie/∞


International Dyslexia Association
http://www.interdys.org/∞

University of Cambridge, Disability Resource Centre
For information booklets on specific learning difficulties including dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia (difficulty with arithmetic) and dysgraphia (difficulty with handwriting)
http://www.cam.ac.uk/cambuniv/disability/about/pdf/sldbooklet.pdf∞

Various books on dyslexia
http://www.dyslexia.ie/res.htm∞

Back