Introduction to Dyslexia (DST217)

This course provides early childhood and primary educators with a deep understanding of dyslexia and its impact on learning. Grounded in current research and the science of reading, participants will explore the characteristics and causes of dyslexia, alongside related learning needs that commonly co-occur. By examining key theories and reading models, educators will learn to identify why a child may be struggling with reading and how to target support effectively. The course also emphasizes a holistic perspective, considering environmental, emotional, and developmental factors that influence a young person’s ability to access learning. Participants will gain practical strategies for building the critical foundations of reading comprehension, while also designing learning environments that are inclusive, motivating, and responsive to diverse needs.

• Dyslexia: Definition, characteristics and theories
• Co-occurring learning needs
• Interactive Factors Framework (IFF): Holistic evaluation of child’s development and ability to access learning
• Reading models (Part 1)
• Reading models (Part 2)
• Effective literacy instruction: Phonemic awareness
• Effective literacy instruction: Phonics
• Effective literacy instruction: Fluency
• Effective literacy instruction: Vocabulary
• Effective literacy instruction: Reading comprehension
• Motivating young learners
• Effective instruction in early childhood settings

• Explain the characteristics and causes of dyslexia with reference to theories.
• Describe other learning needs that co-occur with dyslexia.
• Summarise the critical building blocks required to facilitate successful reading comprehension according to the Science of Reading.
• Suggest why a child is struggling with reading, informed by reading models.
• Identify and explain holistic factors that may be affecting a young person’s development and ability to access learning.
• Illustrate how a motivating and inclusive learning environment can be created for young children at-risk of dyslexia.