1 Pedagogy, learning and subject knowledge

Introduction

Module Overview

Figure 1 Supporting GTC Scotland Professional Update

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Diagram of the three Dyslexia modules. This is the second of 3 modules to support professional learning and further develop knowledge and understanding of dyslexia and inclusive practice.

Figure 1 Supporting GTC Scotland Professional Update

Welcome to this free module, Supporting Dyslexia and inclusive practice. It is designed primarily for support to learning and specialist teachers and local authority inclusion staff. However, anyone with an interest in developing their professional learning to support and understand Dyslexia and inclusive practie may also participate in the module. The module supports the recommendations of the 2014 Education Scotland Review: 'Making Sense: Education for Children and Young People with Dyslexia in Scotland'. It is the second of three linked modules by the Addressing Dyslexia Toolkit [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] and Dyslexia Scotland with the support of the Opening Educational Practices in Scotland Project. All three modules use the General Teaching Council Scotland's (GTCS') focus areas identified to support professional learning:

1. Pedagogy, learning and subject knowledge
2. Curriculum and assessment
3. Enquiry and research
4. Educational contexts and current debates in policy, education and practice
5. Sustaining and developing professional learning
6. Learning for sustainability

Further information on the GTCS professional learning can be accessed online

The Scottish Government is working with partners who have supported the development of free professional learning resources, some of which are highlighted below. These resources aim to provide teachers and local authority staff with an awareness of what dyslexia is, its impact and how it can be supported within an inclusive school community.

• The Addressing Dyslexia Toolkit – An online resource developed by an expert working group and funded by the Scottish Government. The toolkit is managed by Dyslexia Scotland to support teachers and provide information on dyslexia and literacy difficulties.
• Education Scotland − Route Map for Dyslexia and Inclusive Practice – To support deeper learning and understanding of dyslexia using the GTCS areas for career long professional learning (CLPL) and the four broad elements identified by Education Scotland. This route map supports teachers in reflective practice, inclusive practice and professional learning. This introductory short online module was developed in partnership with The Open University in Scotland. It follows the same structure as the route map above

Module 1, ‘Introduction to Dyslexia and Inclusive Practice’, focused on what dyslexia is, its impact and how it can be supported within an inclusive school community. You developed an awareness of:

• The education context in Scotland and the national agenda
• What dyslexia is and its impact
• Dyslexia and inclusive practice
• Effective communication
• How dyslexia is identified
• Information and practical support strategies

Module 2 aims to further support your understanding of dyslexia, inclusive practice and literacy development.

Learning Outcomes:

By participating in the tasks you will have a deeper understanding of:

• Dyslexia and inclusive practice within the Scottish context of education, equality and equity
• Dyslexia and how it is identified
• Dyslexia, co-occurring additional support needs and inclusive practice
• Effective communication
• Support strategies

The module includes a reflective log, which can be used to support the GTCS’ requirement to maintain professional standards. The activities in this module have been designed to support self-evaluation, reflective practice and professional development for you as an individual practitioner. The activities are also designed to support group work with colleagues and professional discussions with your line manager which can include annual reviews and professional update.

At the start of the module you should complete the self-evaluation and reflect on this again at the end of the module. During the module, you can test your knowledge by taking some practice quizzes. At the end of the module, you will be asked to complete an assessed quiz. If you gain a score of at least 80% in the assessed quiz, have attempted the practice quizzes and have clicked through all the pages of the module you will earn a digital badge.