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The DfES has published its report into Assessment of Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) in Higher Education.
The DfES convened a special working group in 2003 in response to clarification from LEas. The remit was to revise guidelines on diagnostic assessment of university students with specific learning difficulties, including dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia (developmental co-ordination disorder), and attention deficit disorders.
The group was chaired by Carol Youngs, BDA Director of Policy and Media. It comprised about 20 professional members, including:
- psychologists;
- disability officers;
- specialist teachers;
- support staff working in HE;
- leaders of training course for teachers of adults with SpLD;
- LEA awards officers; and
- other consultants in relevant fields
.
The aims of the working party were to create a new National Framework for Assessment of SpLD in Higher Education for Applications for Disabled Students Allowances (DSA). In the past there have been many uncertainties amongst LEA officers administering DSA applications because of their limited knowledge of dyslexia and its effects on studying in higher education. These concerns and uncertainties often lead to delays in processing applications and to some students being denied access to the support they require.
A key part of the Framework is that those providing assessments for DSA in cases of SpLD by 2007 must hold a current Practising Certificate in SpLD Assessment. Practising Certificates will have a life of five years and be updated thereafter, contingent upon the assessor having participated in appropriate Continuing Professional Development.
Courses meeting the Assessment Awards and Practising Certificate standards at Level 5 will be accredited through a board co-ordinated by PATOSS and the BDA. You can read more about Training for a Practising Certificate in SpLD Assessment on the Patoss website.
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