We think it’s time to celebrate our dyslexic apprentices for their unique abilities! A high percentage of the apprentices starting our programmes who are identified as requiring adjustments to their teaching and learning are dyslexic (this is often referred to as word blindness). At some point during their education, they may have been told they are dyslexic; however, more often than not this is not followed up with a screening programme so no changes are made to their teaching and learning.
Dyslexic minds often process information in different ways. Some of the world’s greatest inventions (and coolest brands) have been created by dyslexic minds. From the light bulb to the iPhone; with standout people such as, Albert Einstein, Richard Branson and even Picasso! Dyslexic minds work differently. This makes them very good at some things, but it also means they may struggle with other things. Importantly, people with dyslexic minds often need a little extra time to process information.
Creating a ‘strengths first’ teaching and learning environment will help dyslexic apprentices to enjoy an enjoyable and rewarding training session, one that allows them to learn in the best way for them, and to succeed in what they are asked to do.
‘Made by Dyslexia’ is a global charity whose mission is to encourage every school and workplace to empower dyslexic thinking. They provide a free training module for educators – please click on www.madebydyslexia.org
Technology plays a significant part in making this possible; here are some really good examples:
Text to speech and speech to text in Immersive Reader:
Spell check and grammar check, plus accessibility:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/training/educator-center/topics/accessibility
Remember to utilise phones during lessons for video or voice recording as well as for photos. These can be added to mind maps and One Note files.
Approaching learning with a range of resources is often successful. You can allow all apprentices to choose what resources suit them best. Take a look at what’s on offer at: www.thedyslexiashop.co.uk
At Cheynes Training we offer screening for the Quickscreen Dyslexia programme. This is approved by the the Department for Education and it allows us to make adjustments to the apprentices learning to meeting their individual needs and helps ensure they are not at a significant disadvantage.