Study and Organisation Aids
A very common feature of dyslexia is poor organisation skills, which affects many areas, e.g. time-keeping, planning study timetables, and especially the organisation of information, whether it is making good revision notes or the organisation of longer written passages.
Concept-mapping or mind-mapping software programmes are very useful tools for students who have good visual-spatial ability. Information can be converted into a visual mind-map containing key information, pictures and showing connections. Students can use mind-mapping software to create visual revision aids, but it can also be used for brainstorming, concept mapping and planning essays. Kidspiration (for younger students) and Inspiration are some of the most commonly used programmes of this type. Mind Genius is another good programme for older students and adults in the workplace.
Wordswork is a multi-sensory programme on study skills. While it was designed primarily for undergraduate students with dyslexia, it is relevant for students at second level, and also for adults, particularly those who want to improve their skills before going back to formal education. It uses graphics, voice-overs, colour and humour to develop a variety of skills which students with dyslexia (and others) need to address. Topics covered include essay writing, memory strategies, exam revision and time management. It also includes sections on reading, spelling, grammar and other areas.
There are some programmes on the market which may help to improve memory using various interactive activities and games, e.g. Mastering Memory. They present sequences of pictures, words and symbols to be remembered, and gradually increase the difficulty level and speed.
Some older students and adults find using a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), electronic organiser or their mobile phone applications helpful to keep track of coursework requirements, when an essay or project is due, making to-do lists and study timetables. New tablet devices such as the iPad and modern mobile phones are also very popular, as they provide a wide range of tools and applications to support study and organisation in education and the workplace.
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