Enhancing Dyslexia Awareness at the Copenhagen Teacher Education

By Camilla Højmark Find and Liva Hyttel-Sørensen

This poster presents the initial results of our project focused on dyslexia within teacher training programs in Copenhagen. Our project has dual purposes: firstly, to enhance teacher expertise in integrating dyslexia knowledge, and secondly, to provide essential support to dyslexic students. We target both dyslexic teacher education students and dyslexic pupils in Danish primary schools.

To achieve our goals, we conducted a comprehensive survey among teacher trainers in Copenhagen to assess their understanding of dyslexia and evaluate how they incorporate this knowledge into their teaching. Additionally, we implemented a pilot study, introducing a course on assistive technologies (including text-to-speech software) for teacher trainers responsible for teaching reading and writing didactics. Finally, we developed new welcome materials for new students, highlighting the assistance available for dyslexic students.

Our poster highlights the survey findings and the resulting measures taken to create a level playing field across various subjects. We also share insights from the assistive technologies course. These combined findings illuminate the current status of dyslexia awareness and support in teacher training in Copenhagen. By identifying areas for improvement, we aim to ensure that dyslexic pupils in Danish primary schools receive the necessary assistance from well-prepared teachers. This project represents the initial step toward enhancing dyslexia support within the Danish education system.