Experiences of Students with Dyslexia in Higher Education in England

Eplin, Randal (2021) Experiences of Students with Dyslexia in Higher Education in England. Doctor of Education thesis, University of Liverpool.

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Abstract

Abstract Title: Experiences of Students with Dyslexia in Higher Education in England Dyslexia is a learning disability that can be characterized by difficulties in reading, word recognition and spelling. Such difficulties create learning challenges for students diagnosed with dyslexia. As a result, students with such disabilities would need specialized support in learning environments. Some universities have made positive inroads by enrolling students with dyslexia and establishing centres that assist such students. There is research that identifies varying degrees of support for students with dyslexia but very little research on how students have responded to the support provided. Using phenomenology as the research methodology, this thesis explores the experiences of nine students with a diagnosis of dyslexia at a university in England. In addition, the study explores academic staff members’ experiences with students diagnosed with dyslexia. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather information from the participants. Thematic analysis was used to identify the themes that emerged from the interviews. Four main findings were identified. First, tutoring was discovered to be a very effective form of support. Second, the ability to self-regulate and seek out help on their own was important. Third, students and academic staff called for the need for ‘inclusive practices.’ Fourth, the speed at which services could be accessed could be improved. There were notable variations in students’ experiences as well as how academic staff understood issues related to supporting students with a diagnosis of dyslexia. Finally, implications for practice are explored with practical suggestions on how this research can be applied in higher education settings desiring to implement ways to assist students with dyslexia.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctor of Education)
Divisions:	Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences > School of Histories, Languages and Cultures
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	04 Jun 2021 10:56
Last Modified:	18 Jan 2023 22:44
DOI:	10.17638/03124075
Supervisors:	Manokore, Viola Willis, Ian
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3124075