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Talk;EAL

Thursday stream 6 Session 16.10 - 17.25 Length 25 minutes

A dyslexia-friendly approach to individualised learning of initial literacy in mainstream schools

Peter Haase and Morag Hunter-Carsch

University of Sunderland CMH16@leicester.ac.uk

Abstract

This paper reports progress with the design and development of a computer-based approach which was introduced at the BDA's first international conference on dyslexia and multilingualism in June 1999. The approach involves the learning of a shallow orthography based language (German) and discusses implications for learning English as another language (EAL). It is based on neuropsychological research and draws upon recent findings of studies investigating early identification and assessment of specific learning difficulties. The presentation will include a review and discussion of selected research findings relating to aspects of auditory and visual processing and to motivation to learn. Links will be made with the COPE Project (Cognitive Profiling for Inclusive Education) at Leicester University with Leicester City LEA. Issues such as the anticipated difficulties with computer-based learning of EAL will be discussed.