If you have been doing your best with your studies but all your efforts are not producing the grades that you need or expect, you may be one of the 10% of people in the UK living with a Specific Learning Difference or Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD), such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia and dyspraxia/DCD.
SpLDs are lifelong, neurological differences that can present barriers to new learning, recalling, or processing information and literacy acquisition.
SpLD traits can present themselves in many positive ways, such as:
- Above average intelligence
- Exceptional creativity
- Unique problem-solving skills
- A keen sense of empathy and justice
- Good intuition
However, someone living with a SpLD may also experience:
- Poor focus and attention
- Poor handwriting
- Poor spelling and sentence construction
- Short-term and working-memory difficulties
- Difficulties with reading, absorbing information and comprehending text
- Trouble synthesising information
- Difficulties in organising thoughts for writing
- Poor personal organisation and coordination skills
- Left/right confusion
The effects of SpLDs can be difficult to manage but with the right guidance, interventions, technologies, and strategies, they don't need to limit academic attainment or career aspirations.
Useful websites
- BRAINinHE: a comprehensive resource on dyslexia and other specific learning difficulties at university with detailed definitions and suggested strategies.
- British Dyslexia Association: has general information and advice on dyslexia.
- Dyspraxia Foundation: supports individuals affected by dyspraxia.
- Adders: information and support for people affected by ADD and AD(H)D. Mostly aimed at families but research articles are useful.