News

The dyslexia debate continues

(18 October 2005)

Participants of last month’s controversial Channel 4 documentary The Dyslexia Myth are among the speakers at a follow-up conference this week that takes forward the debate about the use of the term “dyslexia”.

Durham University Professor of Education Julian Elliott sparked off major discussion about the value of the term and whether diagnosing this condition was the best way to help those experiencing reading difficulties. While many people recognised the scientific evidence that underpinned the programme, others were hostile to its message and were highly critical of some who took part in it.

Part of the documentary was filmed at an earlier conference in Durham. Now a follow-up event is set to explore the issues in further detail. Speakers include several of those who appeared in the programme: Professors Peter Tymms and Julian Elliott of Durham University and Professor Maggie Snowling of York University. Concluding remarks will be provided by David Mills the Executive Producer of the TV documentary. A panel debate will enable members of the audience to ask questions and put across their views.

Professor Elliott said: “I had a lot of reaction at the first conference, and to the TV programme, and some people have tried to have this conference cancelled. But it is important that we have this debate properly.”

The event takes place on Friday 21 October at The Friends House, 173 Euston Road, London, NW1 2BJ.

Further information Details for attendance: please email Kalvinder.Dhillon@cem.dur.ac.uk