An alternative view on reading difficulties.
Outline:
Do we all see words we read in the same way? The answer is a definite No! Individuals might not realize it, because words have always looked a certain way, but for some people the words and letters move on the page without them realizing that this is strange. This phenomenon is called Scoptic Sensitivity, visual stress or better known as Irlen Syndrome. Children and adolescents who suffer from Irlen Syndrome have been misdiagnosed for years. They are often labelled as “dyslexic”, “ADD”, “behavioral problem children” and “children with learning difficulties” or even “lazy” because they are reacting to visual stress. This workshop is intended to help professionals look at reading difficulties from a different lens.
Aims of the workshop:
- Understanding Scoptic Sensitivity Syndrome (Irlen).
- Discuss the indicators for identifying Irlen syndrome and the populations affected.
- Understanding the Irlen method in assessing reading difficulties.
- Discussion of misconceptions about seeing and reading.
- Discussion of case studies (multimedia) of learners who have been affected by Irlen syndrome.
- Accommodation plans for learners with Irlen in the home and classroom.
Outcomes of the workshop:
After completion of the workshop the participants will be able to:
- Have a beter understanding of what Irlen syndrome is.
- Able to identify possible learners with Irlen syndrome to refer for assessments.
- Able to give accommodation plans for learners with Irlen syndrome in the home and school setting.