Specific Learning Difficulties - Dyslexia

MEd in Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia)
Introduction
The MEd SpLD/Dyslexia also reflects the competences, knowledge and professional skills identified by the International Dyslexia Association and the International Literacy Association.

The programme aims to build capacity in schools in the area of SpLD/Dyslexia and to develop teachers who would be expected to:

• Select, administer and interpret detailed diagnostic assessments and use appropriate psychometric tools

• Effectively identify and use appropriate strategies, interventions and approaches to support learners with Dyslexic-type difficulties

• Provide expert advice to parents and professionals in different settings and at all levels

• Support mainstream teachers, contribute to the effective working of multi-disciplinary teams and lead a multi- disciplinary team.

Programme
The programme aims to build capacity in schools in the area of SpLD/Dyslexia and to develop teachers who would be expected to:
• Select, administer and interpret detailed diagnostic assessments and use appropriate psychometric tools
• Effectively identify and use appropriate strategies, interventions and approaches to support learners with Dyslexic-type difficulties
• Provide expert advice to parents and professionals in different settings and at all levels
• Support mainstream teachers, contribute to the effective working of multi-disciplinary teams and lead a multi- disciplinary team.

The MEd SpLD/Dyslexia addresses three core areas of knowledge and practice:
• Understanding the development of language and literacy learning
• Identifying and assessing specific learning difficulties/dyslexia;
• Managing curriculum based interventions and evidence based practice and support.

In the first year of M Ed SpLD/Dyslexia students focus on theories and models of language and literacy development; and the identification of learning differences underpinning specific learning difficulties. They reflect on their own practice and build experience in evaluating programmes and methods to support the development of literacy across the curriculum. Students also undertake literacy assessments in reading, writing, spelling, mathematics, and create an individualised support and intervention programme.

In the second year students gain a critical understanding of diagnostic assessment using standardised assessment tests and develop professional expertise in assessing students and in writing professional reports containing recommendations for intervention. They complete a Professional Practice Portfolio (PPP) based on in-depth assessments, analysis and learner support. An action research element is an integral part of Year 2 as students develop professional expertise and leadership in the area of SpLD/Dyslexia in their school or work contexts.

To view the current course structure, please visit the Provider's website.

Requirements
This programme is run on a cyclical basis, with the next intake in September 2023.

Applications will be welcomed from primary teachers, post-primary teachers and other professionals in the education community. Applicants are required to have a Honours degree with a minimum of H2.2 OR an Honours degree with at least 3 years work experience in education/teaching.

Candidates are expected to have good grounding and understanding of literacy and dyslexia. Standard entry procedures with disabilities apply.

All Applicants must submit:
• Applicants should include their Teaching Council Registration Number when making their application on PAC.
• Students will be required to undertake diagnostic assessment of individual learners over the course of the programme. Please indicate that you have access to learners at (a) primary OR (b) post-primary OR (c) further education level.

International Applications
International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language.

Primary and post primary applicants must be registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland.

Application Deadlines
Closing date for applications 22nd May 2023.

If you are a non EU student and require a study visa, you are not eligible to apply for part-time programmes as study visas are only granted for full-time programmes.

All entry requirements should be met before the commencement of the programme.

Queries
Queries from EU applicants should be directed to postgraduateadmissions@dcu.ie

Queries from non EU applicants should be directed to internationalapplications@dcu.ie
All applicants must:
• All Applicants must apply through DCU's Student Application Portal.
• Provide Academic Transcripts for each and every year of study with English translation, if applicable.
• Provide a detailed CV
• Provide a 500-750 word (max) personal statement stating why you want to undertake this course
• Please upload official Teaching Council Confirmation of Registration and number
• If applicable, provide evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements.

Please see link http://www.dcu.ie/registry/english.shtml

2 yeas part-time

Careers
On successful completion of the professional requirements of the MEd SpLD/Dyslexia programme (90 ECTS), candidates are eligible to apply for Associate Membership of the British Dyslexia Association (AMBDA) certification. With AMBDA status, the dyslexia specialist teacher is internationally recognised to undertake dyslexia assessment and specialist teaching.