Dyslexia and ICT

What is Dyslexia? The word 'dyslexia' is Greek and means 'difficulty with words'. Definition: Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty which mainly affects the development of literacy and language related skills. It is characterised by difficulties with phonological processing, rapid naming, working memory, processing speed, and the automatic development of skills that may not match up to an individual’s other cognitive abilities. It tends to be resistant to conventional teaching methods, but its effects can be mitigated by appropriately specific intervention, including the application of information technology and supportive counselling.

Why use ICT? 3 Categories of difficulties Processing of sounds Difficulty when scribing information with speed and handwriting. Struggle with reading back through work due to hand writing.

Why use ICT? Difficulty with processing information Finds it difficult to concentrate Finds work more difficult as can’t keep up Feels frustrated and becomes de-motivated, which leads to more difficulty

Why use ICT? Other benefits see and hear written text on screen; repeat and review information as and when they need to; try out actions first, then make an informed choice; practise skills that meet their needs, in both pace and content; overcome barriers such as slow typing or writing speed and spelling; record and edit ideas easily using ordinary word processing, word banks, predictive and planning tools, as well as digital and video technologies; plan work before starting to write and review output prior to completion; demonstrate their knowledge and ability; work more independently. BDA (2007)

Why use ICT? Andersson and Draffan (2004) stress the importance of matching software to the individual. Smyth and Draffan (2004) believe the key areas for success with ICT are: Accessibility, usability, readability, learn ability and human interface.

Why use ICT? Task All switch your pen over into the hand you do not usually use to write Write down notes to the following passage.

Why use ICT? Hints on features to look for when choosing software Options of full speech support on content, menus and help features Clear, spoken instructions that can be repeated or paused Opportunities to review and repeat Options to alter format – background, font, colour, font size Clear uncluttered screens Written text in a clear readable format and font Clear images that can be easily identified Easy to navigate with clear icons for accessing tools, menus or onscreen help Pupil tracking where appropriate – time taken, tasks attempted or completed Pupil / teacher options to meet individual learning preferences Options for differentiated levels or activities, where appropriate Full speech support for word processed text, spellcheckers and word banks Option of printed reports where appropriate Spellcheckers with speech support and displayed definitions, also spoken. Text highlighted when spoken or text spoken when selected Additional access options if required (e.g. switch control) BDA (2007)

Websites and programs for children In this game you have to give the correct bone to the correct dog. If the word is spelt correctly then you give it to the dog with the food bowl. Fun, motivating, helps with spelling!

Computer Resources Numbershark Activprimary Can rub out work Not permanent Increase of motivation with ICT Fun

Websites and programs for children dyslexia.org.uk/community/games/index.php dyslexia.org.uk/community/games/index.php software.de/game/egame.htm software.de/game/egame.htm Have a look at a few resources on line.

Accessories for ICT The monitor can be adjusted for brightness and contrast and an anti-glare screen can also help. The quality of the monitor will also affect the picture: better quality CRT monitors have displays that are free of flicker as do all LCD screens. Adjustments to the size and colours of the display can be made using the systems control panels to help improve legibility. With some programs it is possible to select colours, fonts (shapes of letters) and sizes to suit the individuals preferences.

Accessories for ICT MONITOR OVERLAYS Tinted overlays for your computer screen, to reduce glare and rest the eyes. Monitor overlays stick to your screen by static electricity. The three colours can be combined to create purple, orange, green etc. Purchase them in sets of three overlays, in any combination of AQUA, YELLOW, SKY, GRASS and MAGENTA.

Accessories for ICT THE VIRTUAL READING RULER The Virtual Reading Ruler is just "dragged" round the screen with the mouse, highlighting what you need, how you need it! Intuitive setup, no learning curve. Easy to Configure Mobile Screen Overlay for all computer work. Select your colour. Configure your settings. Improve your reading comfort. om/index.html

Options of full speech support on content, menus and help features Clear, spoken instructions that can be repeated or paused Opportunities to review and repeat Options to alter format – background, font, colour, font size Clear uncluttered screens Written text in a clear readable format and font Clear images that can be easily identified Full speech support for word processed text, spellcheckers and word banks Text highlighted when spoken or text spoken when selected BDA (2007)

Websites for Teachers and Parents m - help in the classroom m

Bibliography c_Pupils.pdf c_Pupils.pdf Andersoon, I. Draffan, E. (2004) ‘Matching Technology to Needs’ Provision and Use of Information Technology with Dyslexic Students in University in Europe. Smyth, I. Draffan, E. (2004) ‘Dyslexia and E-learning’ Provision and Use of Information Technology with Dyslexic Students in University in Europe html ml