Dyslexic students in english language classes

Terminology

However, if we look more widely, we can see the term dyslexia used in different ways. For example in Russia the term dyslexia is restricted to reading, while dysgraphia is used for writing. In Italy the term dysgraphia is used for motor difficulties, and dysorthographia is used for spelling difficulties. But in Poland, dysgraphia is a motor difficulty, and dysautographia for handwriting difficulties.

In the UK many people use the term “specific learning difficulties” or SpLD. Dyslexia used to be considered as the same as SpLD, but now it is generally acknowledged that dyslexia is one of several specific learning difficulties which may include dyscalculia, a maths difficulty, and dyspraxia, a motor difficulty. The term frequently used in the USA is “learning disabilities”. This should be considered an umbrella term similar to SpLD.

Some have argued that Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder should also be included. However, this is a behavioural rather than a learning difficulty. Further confusion arises because the terms dyslexia and SpLD are used in close proximity, and are linked historically. For example the British Dyslexia Association is still noted on a number of websites as “the national organisation for specific learning difficulties” (e.g. The Literacy Trust - www.literacytrust.org.uk), and its own website uses phrases such as “This has been found to be essential for those with specific learning difficulties/dyslexia.” without making it clear what is meant by this.

The problem becomes more complex when we consider when more than one specific learning difficulty exists, as is frequently the case. These specific learning difficulties have underlying cognitive processing difficulties, and these may be an underlying cause of more than one SpLD. Consequently, there is considerable overlap, and consequently many dyslexics also have some degree of dyspraxia as well as other difficulties.

Therefore, in an international context we have to be careful how we use these terms. Indeed, it may be argued that it is best to describe the difficulties, and not use a label, particularly when it does not provide additional support.