Dyslexia Screening
Dyslexia screening is sometimes administered in school settings for children who seem to be struggling with reading, writing and spelling. However, there are few standardized tests that are used across the United States that definitively identify children with this learning disability. In some circles, the existence of dyslexia in adults may even be debated, just as ADHD in adults is often down-played. Unfortunately, this in-fighting between departments has left many children and adults confused, downtrodden and unable to reach their full potential without a helping hand. Hopefully, new dyslexia tests that rely on brain scans can open the doorway to understanding.
In “Advances in early years screening for dyslexia in the United Kingdom” (2007), researchers discuss the dyslexia early screening test (DEST) and the cognitive profiling system (CoPS 1), which are both approved for use in the United States as well. By administering these dyslexia screening tests early, it’s believed that at-risk students can be identified before they even fail, thereby decreasing the possibility that these kids will develop emotional, behavioral and motivational issues. A number of educators who teach adults and children with learning disabilities say these two tests are the best options we have today, as long as they’re administered.
In 2009, scientist Jeffrey R. Gruen, M.D. received a $5.2 million grant to further his research on the genetic roots of the dyslexia adult learning disability. In his studies, Gruen is busy comparing the complete genomes of 1,000 fluent readers and 1,000 dyslexic children to see exactly which genes play a hand in reading difficulties. Over the past decade, scientists have found that gene mutations, particularly on the DCDC2 gene, are closely linked with dyslexia. Dr. Gruen adds that the ultimate goal is “the creation of a simple, inexpensive dyslexia screening test that would apply to the general American population.”
In a 2008 study titled “Screening for Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Meares-Irlen Syndrome in Higher Education,” researchers at the University of Worcester found that the lucid adult dyslexia screening test — also known as LADS — is best at detecting dyslexia signs. When combined with a two-part screening process that also tests to rule out MI Syndrome, the results are often even more telling. Since there are so many different tests, it’s important that a better process be discovered to easily diagnose and treat individuals with reading difficulties.
