Dysgraphia is a specific learning disability which affects writing. The writing process is very complex and in order to construct meaningful, well-written text, one must coordinate a number of language, visual and graphomotor processes. Individuals with dysgraphia can experience difficulties with all aspects of writing including handwriting, spelling and composition. This presentation will outline the characteristics of dysgraphia with a specific focus on assistive technologies to support students with dysgraphia in the classroom. These include computer software programs designed to assist students to spell correctly, structure written expression, and to complete written work independently and to a higher standard than that possible without such technology.

Gemma Boyle is a Senior Psychologist at DSF Literacy and Clinical Services where she assesses children and adults with learning difficulties and disabilities. She also consults with parents and educators regarding the nature of Specific Learning Disabilities and how to improve literacy outcomes. Gemma is keen to maintain the link between theory and practice in order to provide evidence-based strategies for those experiencing literacy difficulties. She frequently recommends assistive technologies as both a means to support students in the classroom as well as a multisensory way to deliver remediation.