TOPIC: Effective Administration of the Shaywitz Dyslexia Screen
DURATION: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (5 hours)
FACILITATOR: Mrs. Allyson Murray
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION:
This professional development workshop is designed to equip educators and assessment staff with the knowledge and practical skills necessary for the effective administration of the Shaywitz DyslexiaScreen. Drawing on current research in dyslexia assessment and validated clinical data, the training will cover:
- The scientific foundation and neurobiological basis of dyslexia, including a review of the key brain regions involved in typical reading versus dyslexic reading patterns.
- An in-depth explanation of the Shaywitz DyslexiaScreen’s purpose, its role in early screening, and its place within a broader assessment workflow (Screen, Assess, Intervene, and Monitor).
- Exposure to the Q-Global digital platform.
- A practical component where attendees will practice the administration of the screening tool in a controlled setting to build confidence and ensure accuracy in real-world applications.
- Strategies for interpreting screening data—focusing on sensitivity, specificity, and the importance of differentiating between “at-risk” indicators and a formal diagnosis—and integrating this data into targeted intervention planning.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of this 5-hour workshop, participants will be able to:
- Understand the neurobiological underpinnings of dyslexia and the rationale for using the Shaywitz DyslexiaScreen as a key component of early reading assessment.
- Accurately administer the screening tool using standardised procedures, supported by practical exercises that reinforce the administration process.
- Interpret screening data using core concepts such as sensitivity, specificity, and AUC to differentiate between students who are “at risk” and those who are not.
- Integrate screening results into actionable instructional and intervention plans that align with best practices in evidence-based reading support and educational transformation initiatives.
TARGET GROUP:
This workshop is intended for professionals working in special education settings as well as individuals in general education settings who are responsible for educating persons with diverse literacy needs.
Prerequisite:
Attendees must submit proof of completion of the "Overcoming Dyslexia" course conducted by Sally Shaywitz to ensure they have a foundational understanding of dyslexia prior to participating in this training.
MATERIALS: laptop