A participant in the simulation wrote, "I found it extremely
eye-opening to put myself in the shoes of a dyslexic learner.
I thought I had an idea what students with dyslexia felt,
but I really didn't. I was frustrated when doing the tasks
and can only imagine what a student with dyslexia must feel
every day."
What is it like to have dyslexia? How does it affect your daily life?
Experience Dyslexia® is the latest version of NCBIDA's popular learning disabilities simulation. The simulation is a hands-on experience that lets participants experience some of the challenges and frustrations faced by people with this language-based learning disability. The updated simulation, formerly known as "Put Yourself in the Shoes of a Person with Dyslexia," provides a lively, thought-provoking activity for teachers, parents, or anyone interested in better understanding the lives of individuals with dyslexia.
NEW IN THIS EDITION
Updated fact sheets in the facilitator's packet
New station names
Clear description of how each task relates to dyslexia
Rewrite of Station 2 so that it is more in keeping with a classroom experience
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A SIMULATION
Participants rotate among six learning stations that simulate language-related tasks that may be encountered in the classroom and workplace. Station leaders guide participants through each 10-minute station.
Station 1: Learn to Read simulates a beginning reading problem
Station 2: Listen to Me simulates an auditory figure-ground problem
Station 3: Write with Mirrors simulates a visual-motor and writing problem
Station 4: Name That Letter simulates a letter-word identification problem
Station 5: Write or Left simulates a copying and writing problem
Station 6: Hear and Spell simulates an auditory discrimination problem
PROVEN EFFICACY
The simulation has been shown to be an effective teaching tool. A 2008 study from researchers at Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) using materials from the NCBIDA simulation clearly showed that participation increased awareness of dyslexia among teachers-in-training. See a review of the study
HOW CAN I EXPERIENCE DYSLEXIA®? Experience Dyslexia® is available as a reusable kit for purchase or as a workshop led by NCBIDA volunteers.
