Page 69 - Part-A

Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties

The various assessment methods available to diagnose
Specific Learning Difficulties

Assessments are used to help professionals reach a diagnosis of an SpLD. There are
various ways to request an assessment for a child or adult, although it can sometimes
be a long and frustrating process. An initial screening process often takes place first to
determine whether or not a full assessment will be needed.

An assessment utilises a number of tests and should help to identify strengths and
weaknesses, enabling the individual to identify and use strategies to improve their
performance at home, in education or in the workplace. This will also help to reduce
stress or anxiety and promote well-being.

R Further Research: Initial assessment process

Most colleges and universities offer an initial assessment
process. You can see an example of a booklet from the University
of the West of England by typing the following web address into a
browser, or by searching for ‘10109C-Dyslexia-Booklet-Diagnostic-
Assessment-2015’.

http://www2.uwe.ac.uk/services/Marketing/students/pdf/
Disability%20support%20at%20UWE/10109C-Dyslexia-Booklet-
Diagnostic-Assessment-2015.pdf

Maintaining standards in assessment

The SpLD Assessment Standards Committee (SASC) has set out the way that tests
should be carried out and reports should be written. This provides the information
needed for the Student Loans Company to determine whether Disabled Students’
Allowances are appropriate for applicants.

SASC is also responsible for encouraging improvements in practice, as well as
identifying and sharing best practice. It also has a role in the provision of training
for professionals to implement these standards.

The authority for this committee and its remit stem from the SpLD Working Group
2005/DfES Guidelines.

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