Research
Our team conducted secondary research to understand Dyslexia as a disability as well as current interventions to help with reading. This was followed by contextual inquiry at 5+ Public and Private libraries in the Pittsburgh area to understand the challenges and resources each library posesses.
As previously mentioned, dyslexia is a very common disability (roughly 20% of Americans are affected). The exact cause of dyslexia is yet to be discovered, but it's believed to be linked to differences in brain function related to language processing. These differences can make it challenging to connect letters with sounds (phonemic awareness) and translate written symbols into spoken language (decoding).
Treatment for dyslexia focuses on providing tools and interventions to help individuals overcome these challenges. Here are some key approaches:
- Assistive Technology: Tools like text-to-speech software, speech recognition software, and colored overlays can make reading and writing easier.
- Orton-Gillingham Based Programs: These structured programs break down language into its basic components and teach phonics skills in a step-by-step manner.
- Educational Strategies: Explicit instruction on phonics, phonemic awareness, and reading comprehension strategies can empower students with dyslexia.
Unfortunately, dyslexia is often misunderstood. Stereotypes portray individuals with dyslexia as simply bad readers or slow learners. This can lead to prejudice, with people doubting their intelligence or capabilities. It's important to remember that dyslexia doesn't diminish a person's potential. With proper support, people with dyslexia can excel in school and various fields. This is exactly what our team aims to accomplish with ARgo!
Simulation of a Dyslexic Reader’s Experience
The Resource Gap and the Teacher ChallengeThe challenges of teaching students with Dyslexia are compounded by a lack of resources. Most teachers haven't received proper training on supporting Dyslexic learners, and underfunding further restricts access to valuable tools and programs.
Learning Beyond the Classroom: Contextual Inquiry
To gain a deeper understanding of the needs beyond the classroom, we conducted contextual inquiries at local libraries. This revealed a significant challenge: libraries often struggle to provide adequate learning support, particularly for visitors with disabilities like Dyslexia.
One librarian highlighted how libraries frequently shoulder the burden of systemic issues within a community. In underserved areas, residents rely on libraries for a range of essential resources, including internet access, printing, tax assistance, and – crucially for our project – accessible learning environments.
Contextual Inquiry at the Carnegie Library in Pittsburgh, PA
