Supporting students with dyslexia: an academic’s perspective

10% of the population are dyslexic. My name is Dr Anne Jay, and I am dyslexic. Dyslexia brings challenges that have a considerable impact on OU student success. A key struggle for people with dyslexia is written communication.

Drawing on my lived experience, and acting as a role model to show that people living with dyslexia can succeed in their chosen career, I have produced a series of seven linked audio podcasts to raise awareness among staff and students, and to specifically support those studying with dyslexia.

The podcasts discuss my struggles pre-diagnosis, the challenges I faced in studying, and the successful coping strategies I have developed. The podcasts have been piloted on three Open University courses. Response from students has been very positive, with students relating to my experience. I have therefore decided to share the podcasts more widely, to help raise awareness and to support others who are studying with dyslexia.

You can access the podcasts from the following location: Studying with dyslexia.

If you'd like to know more about my work as an academic (I am a volcanologist), select this link.