Why Must There Be Dyslexia Testing in Schools?
Most of the what we know of dyslexia has occurred during the last twenty-five years or so. Before that the condition was almost completely a mystery.
Dyslexics learn differently. Their eyes see things the same way but their brains apparently interpret the signals from the eyes differently than those of non-dyslexics. It’s not an insurmountable problem, many famous and successful people have been dyslexic. But to reach their full potential they must be taught differently, according to their individual needs.
For something over 15 years now, all elementary schools have routinely screened for learning disabilities dyslexia. Any child who had problems with reading was selected to go through a full-scale professional dyslexic test followed by individual evaluation.
Before about 15 years ago, dyslexics were lumped in with the rest of the students and had to take their chances. Most were treated badly by the educational system, called lazy, slow learners, underachievers. They were made to feel ashamed of and embarrassed by their differences and learned to conceal them.
Millions of adult dyslexics today have never taken a dyslexia test. They still struggle with learning and reading difficulties that could be easily overcome if they were only known. A half-hour dyslexia test could make enormous improvements in their self-esteem and abilities.
There are a large number of different types of dyslexia to deal with. There is no standard definition, no real, workable way to sort them out into types and put them into nice, neat categories. Each one is different and needs to be evaluated and taught accordingly.
A dyslexia test could be a life-changing experience for an adult dyslexic. The test would provide the basis for a diagnosis and lead to the dyslexic person finally receiving the training he or she needs to effectively overcome the limitations that dyslexia would otherwise impose. It could open up a whole new world of opportunity and personal growth.
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Disclaimer: This posting is based on information freely available in the popular press and medical journals that deal with dyslexia. Nothing herein is intended to be or should be construed to be medical advice. For medical advice the reader should consult with his or her physician or other medical specialist.
Courtesy of Jonathan J. Jones
