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Do you work in the education field, struggle with dyslexia, or know someone who does? This article will explore the definition of dyslexia, its symptoms, diagnosis, what it means to live with dyslexia, and treatment options. It will also outline how Ashton College can contribute to a better understanding and treatment of the disorder.
According to Mayo Clinic, dyslexia is a learning disability that causes reading difficulties due to a disconnect between speech sounds and written letters in the brain. Its impacts can range from mild to severe. If untreated, childhood reading difficulties continue into adulthood and may hinder a person’s academic, social, and economic success and well-being. However, it does not negatively affect someone’s intelligence. Dyslexia Canada mentions the disorder as the most common cause of reading, writing, and spelling difficulties, and it affects people from all genders, and ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds similarly.
The symptoms of dyslexia may include but are not restricted to (Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic):
Experiencing one or two of these symptoms does not necessarily mean someone has dyslexia. However, undergoing testing is recommended to determine if specialized help is required.
Various tests are used to diagnose dyslexia, which complement each other to obtain conclusive results. A professional will evaluate several factors and test for common signs of dyslexia, such as reading fluency and comprehension, oral language skills, spelling, vocabulary, decoding, and word recognition (Cleveland Clinic). Any observations by parents, guardians, or teachers will also be taken into consideration.
Even though researchers are inconclusive about what causes dyslexia, evidence suggests differences in brain structure, function, and chemistry in people with dyslexia (Cleveland Clinic). One significant factor is genetics. According to Cleveland Clinic, a child with one parent with dyslexia has a 30% to 50% chance of inheriting it. Genetic conditions like Down syndrome can also make dyslexia more likely to occur. Other reasons include disruptions in brain development in the womb due to infections or toxic exposure. Injuries or strokes may also cause a form of acquired dyslexia.
Struggling with dyslexia can be frustrating and may cause anxiety and self-esteem issues. However, with the right approach, individuals who have dyslexia can overcome their challenges and be successful. Cleveland Clinic lists many well-known high-achievers with dyslexia, including Jennifer Aniston, Tom Cruise, and Steven Spielberg. It is crucial to remember that dyslexia is entirely unrelated to intelligence, laziness or a lack of motivation. It is a learning disorder that makes reading-related tasks harder but not impossible.
According to HealthLinkBC, dyslexia treatment consists of various methods, such as a slower teaching pace and having the child read aloud. One of the most widely used techniques is the Orton–Gillingham Approach, which teaches the connections between letters and sounds. It breaks reading and spelling down into smaller skills and then improves them gradually. It also uses sight, hearing, touch, and movement to help students connect language with letters and words. Both adults and children can benefit by learning how to manage the disorder and develop strategies for learning and reading.
Parents and teachers can support children by reading and practicing with them and showing them patience, understanding and encouragement to strengthen their self-esteem and motivation. An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) developed by parents and teachers may also help set personalized learning goals and lesson plans (HealthLinkBC).
Ashton College offers a part-time, online, instructor-led course on dyslexia and the Orton Gillingham Approach. Students will be introduced to the definition, signs and symptoms of dyslexia, common misconceptions, evaluation, and interventions for dyslexia. The Orton-Gillingham approach will be examined and discussed. The course will also discuss current accommodations available to children and adults with dyslexia, current research as well as strategies, tips, and tools.
The information contained in this post is considered true and accurate as of the publication date. However, the accuracy of this information may be impacted by changes in circumstances that occur after the time of publication. Ashton College assumes no liability for any error or omissions in the information contained in this post or any other post in our blog.
