Dyslexia diagnoses are becoming more and more prevalent, as early identification and intervention improves. However, our society as a whole still has a long way to go in fully embracing the abilities of people with dyslexia and empowering them. In 2018, Ernst and Young (EY), a multinational professional services firm, published a report on the value of dyslexia and the strengths individuals with dyslexia bring to the workforce.
Their report states, “When dyslexia is solely associated with challenges, it can inhibit dyslexic individuals reaching their full potential. When dyslexia is focused on strengths with challenges supported, it can create positive outcomes through a better understanding of ability.”
In order to tap into the strengths of an individual with dyslexia, we must first understand that they are neurologically different from those without dyslexia. This person’s way of learning and processing information is completely unique. This uniqueness gives the individual with dyslexia strengths in creativity, problem solving, and communication skills, all of which are highly sought-after skills of any employer.
Their weaknesses, such as spelling, reading, and memorization of information, heighten their ability to find solutions in a different way. They have an innate ability to think outside of the box, bringing a fresh perspective to any situation. Instead of focusing on the weaknesses of dyslexia, we must highlight the strengths and use them to their full potential. Any classroom or work environment can benefit from an individual with great reasoning, an ability to connect with others, an explorative way of learning, a way of communicating ideas creatively, an active imagination, and a strong ability to visualize and map out ideas.
As the workforce changes and adapts to our current world, there is an increasing demand for people who can work collaboratively and across different disciplines. People with dyslexia have the cognitive abilities and skills to meet these needs and help take companies to the next level.
EY’s report provides suggestions on how to begin capturing strengths of dyslexia, both for educators and employers:
Embrace a strengths-based culture.
Provide access to dyslexia screeners, assessments, and information resources.
For employers, implement a neuro-diverse talent strategy.
Everybody has strengths and weaknesses, whether they have dyslexia, language processing disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or none of these. At Academics Plus, we are excited to see companies championing the unique strengths of individuals with learning challenges and look forward to seeing the impact on our world for years to come.
To better understand your child’s unique learning profile, call us today to schedule a Learning Checkup.