Understanding Dyslexia

Course Description

This course aims to provide an in-depth understanding of dyslexia and related learning disabilities. Participants will learn about the causes, identification, and interventions for individuals with dyslexia. Students will learn about evidence-based interventions and multisensory approaches for teaching and supporting individuals with dyslexia. Accommodations and modifications that can be implemented to better support individuals with dyslexia in the classroom will also be discussed. Strategies for supporting emotional and social well-being will be explored, as well as ways to build partnerships with families and communities for better support.

The legal and policy issues related to dyslexia will be discussed in-depth, including laws and regulations for dyslexia support and accommodations. Current policy debates and implications for dyslexic individuals will also be explored. Additionally, students will explore research directions related to dyslexia, including current research findings and emerging trends and their impact on practice and policy.

The course is designed for education professionals, parents, and anyone who wants to learn more about dyslexia and how to support people with the condition.

Learning Objectives

• Define dyslexia and list its characteristics and symptoms.
• Explore the causes of dyslexia, including genetic and neurological factors.
• Evaluate the different assessments and screening tools for identifying dyslexia.
• Examine the impact of dyslexia on reading, writing, and spelling skills.
• Analyze the various interventions and teaching strategies for supporting individuals with dyslexia.
• Identify the assistive technologies and accommodations that can benefit individuals with dyslexia.
• Recognize the role of parents and caregivers in supporting individuals with dyslexia.
• Develop strategies for advocating for individuals with dyslexia in schools and workplaces.

Teaching methods

There are different teaching methods available to support learners with dyslexia. These methods include:

• Multisensory Approach: This approach involves the use of a combination of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic-tactile sensory modalities to teach reading, writing, and spelling skills. It involves the use of tools like manipulatives, sandpaper letters, and phoneme-based instruction.
• Explicit Phonics: This method involves teaching learners the rules and sounds of the English language, including phonics, phonemic awareness, and spelling. It can help learners with dyslexia who have difficulty decoding words.
• Reading Comprehension Strategies: These strategies can help learners with dyslexia to understand what they read. Strategies like visualization, summarization, predicting, and questioning can help learners to better comprehend the text.
• Technology-Based Instruction: Many dyslexia-friendly tools and software are available to support learners with dyslexia. These tools can help learners with reading, writing, spelling, organization, and memory skills.
• Remedial Reading Programs: These programs are designed to help learners who struggle with reading. They offer intensive, individualized instruction and skills-building for learners with dyslexia.
• Peer Tutoring and Cooperative Learning: Pairing learners with dyslexia with peers who can offer support and encouragement can help build social skills, self-esteem, and academic success.

Note: It’s important to note that teachers and specialists should work collaboratively to identify and implement the appropriate methods and strategies for each learner with dyslexia.

Course Format

• Blended learning with a mix of online and in-person sessions.
• Multimedia resources, including videos, podcasts, and interactive tools.
• Group discussions and case studies.
• Guest speakers from diverse backgrounds, including researchers, educators, and parents of children with dyslexia.
• Self-reflection activities and quizzes.
• Final project or paper.

Course Topics