Newcastle University

Background

I joined Disability Support in 2000 to provide administrative support and screening assessments for dyslexia. In 2002 my role was extended to provide one-to-one and small group specialist tuition and advice for students with dyslexia and related learning difficulties.

Roles and Responsibilities

Specialist Learning Adviser and Tutor
Student Wellbeing Service

Assessor
UCAN (University Centre for Assessment at Newcastle)

Qualifications

Bachelor of Laws
Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Learners with Specific Learning Difficulties

Memberships

ADSHE(Association of Dyselxia Specialists in Higher Education)
NNAC (National Network of Assessment Centres)
SKILL (National Bureau for Students with Disabilities)

Research Interests

Dyslexia and assessment in creative practice based disciplines and the problems posed by large pieces of written assessment.

Current Work

Exploring the potential and problems posed by large pieces of written assessment for dyslexic students in practice-based disciplines as part of a UTLC Innovation Fund project. The project is researching the viability of alternative modes of assessment or equivalents which have the potential for wider application through the University.

Publication:

Alden S, Pollock VL. Dyslexia and the Studio: bridging the gap between theory and practice. International Journal of Art & Design Education 2011 30 1:81-89.