Graduate Certificate in Dyslexia Knowledge and Practice

Program Goals

The program is based on the following standards:

    • International Dyslexia Association, Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading (2018)
    • International Literacy Association, Standards for the Preparation of Literacy Professionals (2017)
    • Council for Exceptional Children, Advanced Special Education Preparation Standards (2015)
    • International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), Standards for Teachers

    Students will learn to:

    • Understand the origins and characteristics of dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities (LBLD)
    • Diagnose dyslexia and other LBLD
    • Use a diagnostic and prescriptive approach to assessment and instruction
    • Gain advanced knowledge of language, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, etymology, orthography, including syllable types and division patterns, semantics, syntax, discourse, and pragmatics
    • Use a multi-sensory, structured literacy approach for lower-level (phonics including sound symbol associations, phonemic awareness, spelling, word recognition, fluency, and handwriting) and higher-level (vocabulary, comprehension, syntax and written expression) language and literacy skills
    • Individualize instruction to each student’s specific needs, including executive functioning, working memory, and other learning issues
    • Use Orton-Gillingham principles to inform instruction
    • Teach with technology to engage students