Dyslexic students: from language learning to language testing

Abstract

[EN] This paper will focus on the delicate issue of assessing the language proficiency of dyslexic students in a foreign language, namely English. These learners are usually considered a sub-group of test takers because of their specific learning differences. An overview of dyslexia will be presented, shedding light on the difficulties encountered by dyslexic students during their learning process. Some of the accommodations used during the learning process will be illustrated, along with the accommodations and/or modifications allowed during language testing. Attention will also be paid to fairness and validity represented by accommodations. Moreover, the special requirements allowed by international examination boards during their high-stakes tests will be analysed. Finally, this paper will illustrate what the Italian Law takes into account for dyslexic students and how it is applied at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy.Keywords: dyslexia; SpLDs; language testing; learning differences; accommodations; testing validity.