I feel that there are positive aspects to the changes that are being
progresse that haven't been spelt out yet.
Firstly, these changes suggest that the DSA and its support mechanisums are
here to stay. By the time they are fully implemented it will be difficult
for another government to do away with the DSA. Arguably, this should
enable long-term planning to take place.
Secondly,they will lead to greater professionalism and more intergrative
teamwork. The proposals appear to me to be designed to result in centres
that will be staffed by a specialist team. In my experience, it is not
unusual to encounter a student who has been accepted as qualifying for the
DSA with one disability, only to find on close questioning that there is
another [e.g. a dyslexic student with a severe back problem or diabetes.].
Ideally, all centres with be provided with a full range of assistive
equipment and ergonomic furniture, and staff skilled in advising on best
recommendations.
Thirdly, I would like to see such centres being much more proactive in
research. There are a number of skilled staff and masses of questions.
Perhaps the only significant advance I can think of that has come from an
access centre being research proactive is the wide-spread acceptance of
screening for Irlen syndrome. The access center at the University of
Westminster was central to this work.
[If there are other examples of advances stemming from what could be called
evidence-based practice then I willing retract my comment about only one
significant advance.] The proposed changes will help to make the
undertaking of research easier. However, it is up to individuals to take
the opportunity.
I suspect a genuine problem is that many DO's feel they are too low down in
the pecking order at an institution to effect change. If this is the case
then identify a govenor of the institution who will act as your 'champion'
for disability issues. Top-down pressure is usually much more effective in
effecting change. SU members on academic board can also be very effective.
In hope as ever,
David
David Grant, PhD., Chartered Psychologist
dyslexia diagnosis - a specialist service for students
3 Rosebank Road
Hanwell
London W7 2EW
Tel: 020 8579 1902
e-mail: [log in to unmask]
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