DOHA: New trends and best practices in assessment and treatment of dyslexia, a condition that millions of people around the world live with, were discussed at a conference here organised by Mada (Qatar Assistive Technology Center) about dyslexia and the role of assistive technology in supporting those who face difficulties in reading and writing.
The one day conference featured presentations from experts in Qatar and throughout the Arabic speaking world.
Dr Gad Al Beheri, Associate Dean at the Australian College of Kuwait, and an expert in the area of dyslexia and the Arabic language, spoke about different methods for treatment and intervention and stressed the importance of following scientific principles and modes of understanding to support the needs of people with dyslexia and learning disabilities in general.
Mohammed Anwar of the Supreme Education Council (SEC) highlighted the different policies and practices that are in place in Qatar to support students with dyslexia.
Anwar spoke of the significant role that teachers in the classroom play in supporting the needs of dyslexic children throughout the country.
Dr Batoul Khalifa, a professor in Special Education at Qatar University discussed the role that parents are playing in supporting the needs of their children, and the need to involve them in the educational process.
Maha Al Mansouri, Deputy CEO of Mada emphasised the commitment that Mada has made to working with different groups in the country to develop different ways in which assistive technology can support the needs of dyslexic people in Qatar.
Assistive technology specialists Sabine Sandros and Noor Al Mazroei discussed some of the assistive technologies and support services that are available at Mada, including a new software named Claroread, that was developed by Mada in the Arabic language.
Mohammed Al Qattami, the President of the Kuwaiti Dyslexia Association spoke about the association's programmes and activities in supporting the community, seeing that the Kuwaiti Dyslexia Association is a regional leader in providing programmes and services specifically for dyslexic peoples. The Peninsula
