Study Skills Support During Summer
A couple of years ago it occurred to me that it might be helpful if dyslexic
students could take study skills training during the summer break. They
would have less on their minds and could be better prepared for the
following October. This was particularly so with recently recognised
cases where the student felt overwhelmed with everything else they had
to do. It may mean seeking a support centre near their home but this was
rarely a problem. Most of the students we suggested this to jumped at
the chance.
While some LEAs were willing and several were sympathetic, most
pointed out that DSA support was not available outside of term time so
they could not agree even though they wanted to. We wrote to the DfEE
pointing out the advantages and stressing that new students were
already encouraged to contact assessors before term began. Also LEAs
were allowed to provide equipment early where its lack could do serious
damage eg to a blind student. The DfEE considered the case and have
readily agreed with the argument. The decision was too late to be
included in the latest Notes for Guidance but it will be in a forthcoming
SSIN (Student Support Information Note). The DfEE also stress that
such activity would NOT count as attendance on the course itself.
Another advantage with this is that it allows for the workload of tutors to
be better distributed over the year. Many are unable to cope with
demand for two terms then have a long enforced holiday during several
months of the summer. If centres which can supply this service make
themselves known to the system it could have an improved effect all
round.
Some of you may see nothing new in this, I simply wanted to stress that
there is no reason now for LEAs to refuse.
Dave Laycock
Head of CCPD
Computer Centre for People with Disabilities
University of Westminster
72 Great Portland Street
London W1N 5AL
tel. 0171-911-5161
fax. 0171-911-5162
WWW home page: http://www.wmin.ac.uk/ccpd/
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