Dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD and other specific learning difficulties
A diagnosis of dyslexia will allow you to apply for support from the Disabled Students' Allowance. This can be used to obtain specialist equipment and software - for example a computer - and specialist learning support to help you deal with the study difficulties that you face. There are specialist dyslexia software packages on the computers in the Library and our ITS computer workstation rooms.
Dyslexia learning support
We can arrange dyslexia learning support with a local agency. This is on a one-to-one basis and is tailored to meet your needs in relation to your particular course of study. It might include:
- support with planning and organising your time and work
- strategies for note-taking
- reading and writing of assignments
- spelling strategies
- punctuation and grammar
- memory techniques
What can the Disability Office do for you?
The Disability Office can:
- assist you in applying to Birkbeck, including arranging a pre-application visit
- assist you with enrolment and registration at Birkbeck and with making the most of the induction process
- assist you in applying to your Student Finance England for the Disabled Students' Allowance. The DSA may fund:
- personal computers with specialist dyslexia software (e.g. textHELP Read and Write, Inspiration etc) so you can study at home
- digital recorders for recording lectures
- specialist dyslexia study skills support from a dyslexia tutor who can help you acquire strategies to overcome your difficulties and make the most of your studies
- allowances for books, photocopying, printing and internet costs
- liaise with Disability IT Support who can advise on the specialist dyslexia software that we have available
- arrange specialist one-to-one dyslexia tutorial support
- provide information, advice and training to your lecturers on supporting students with specific learning difficulties
- liaise with lecturers to request copies of overhead projector transparencies (OHPs), Powerpoint presentations, handouts and lecture notes
- liaise with the Library Access Service regarding extended loans.
- advise you on what special examination arrangements (link) you may need and assist you in arranging these
- aim to involve you and all students and the Students’ Union in the development of policy and support services for students with disabilities
If you think you may be dyslexic, make an appointment with the Disability Office.
Useful links
You can improve your study skills using this study skills web site developed by the University of Sheffield. The areas covered are writing, reading and referencing skills.
