Module: Dyslexia/Specific Learning Difficulties

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Dyslexia/Specific Learning Difficulties
Module Code	ISE1009 (ITS: SI730)
Faculty	DCU Institute of Education	School	Inclusive & Special Education
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	10

Description

This module aims to allow participants to reflect critically on the category of Dyslexia, to provide them with a secure understanding of current (and contested) state of knowledge in the area, and to feel informed and empowered to respond to learners placed in this category in inclusive, effective and ethical ways. Attention will be given to national and international literature, policy and guidance. The academic, emotional, and social dimensions of dyslexia will be addressed, with reference to recent developments in the educational landscape (e.g. in assistive technology). The module will focus particularly on developing teacher competencies in areas such as screening and assessment and supporting and including learners assessed with Dyslexia in a range of contexts. Its holistic perspective will emphasise the importance of developing and supporting self-esteem, self-direction and resilience. The module includes presentations by learners with Dyslexia about their experiences of educational contexts. The roles and contributions of various actors, agencies and bodies will be explored.

Learning Outcomes

1. 1DF18D4D-B58F-0001-83CC-FF901190F1C0
2. TBC
5. 1

Total Workload: 0

Section Breakdown
CRN	20018	Part of Term	Semester 2
Coursework	100%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	PASS/FAIL	Pass Both Elements	N
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Sylwia Kazmierczak-Murray	Module Teacher	Eamonn Mccauley, Leanne Connolly

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Assignment	n/a	100%	n/a

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Indicative Content
Understanding the nature of dyslexia from psychological and sociological perspectives. • Co-occurrence of dyslexia and other assessed categories: an examination. • Current Issues around dyslexia (e.g. IQ discrepancies, dyslexia v reading difficulties). • Consider national legislation, national and school policy and guidance. • Early Identification, screening and educational assessment; approaches and instruments (formal and informal). • Evidence-based approaches to catering for learner diversity in the classroom. • Affective and emotional dimensions of dyslexia, the role of self-concept and self-esteem. • The development of dyslexia-friendly schools and learning environments. • Working with others: parents, other professionals within and outside the school. • Learner perspectives, including those of children, students and adults deemed to have dyslexia. • Advocacy.

Indicative Reading List

Books:
None

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None