Specific learning differences

Dyslexia, dysgraphia and other specific learning differences can make studying at university difficult.

If you have a diagnosed Specific Learning Disorder (SpLD), you can register with the DRC so you and your DLO can create an Access Plan that includes adjustments to help reduce the impact of your condition on your studies, for example, additional time can be applied to exams and quizzes, extensions applied to your assignments, and access given to assistive technology.

Specific learning disorders (SpLD) include:

• Dyslexia – this disorder affects reading, spelling and writing.
• Dysgraphia – this disorder affects writing skills such as spelling, handwriting and planning sentences.
• Dyscalculia – this disorder affects a person’s ability to understand number-based information and perform calculations.

Here are 3 tips that may support your learning journey.

Tip 1: Reading

• Use text-to-voice software such as Read&Write or NaturalReader to complete your unit readings, and prioritise required/essential readings first.

Tip 2: Writing

• Use notetaking software such as Glean (talk to your DLO about this).
• Use Grammarly to help with your writing (talk to your DLO about this).
• Reach out to Deakin's team of Language and Learning Advisors or Writing Mentors.
• Use the Dictate button and other accessibility tools in Microsoft Word listed on our assistive technology resources page.
• Use the feedback service offered by Studiosity.

Tip 3: Mathematics

• Reach out to Deakin's team of Maths Mentors for support, strategies and tips, or browse the resources in the Maths Support Resource Centre.
• Use a calculator where possible.
• Look at the valuable resources available through ADCET and SPELD.