Dyslexia and specific learning difficulties (SpLD)

Our support offered to students is tailored to their individual needs. If you have a Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD) such as Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, AD(H)D or Dyscalculia, you should contact the Disability Service or Student Advisor before coming to Heriot-Watt University so that we have the relevant information to put any support in place.

If you have never been formally assessed but think, or have been told, that you may have dyslexia, please contact the Disability Service as we can arrange an initial screening for you.

Examples of support available

Examination and coursework adjustment details

Your coursework and exam adjustments will be discussed in full at your appointment with an Advisor. Any adjustment recommended is based on the needs of the individual. Examples follow, but the list is not exhaustive:

  • Extra time in exams and timed class tests
  • A quiet shared room or individual room for exams
  • Permission to leave class when required
  • Permission to record lectures
  • Lecture notes and slides provided in advance of the lecture

Where your needs are complex, we will agree a Learning Profile with you that will be available to teaching staff. 

Key Points for Effective Study Skills

As there is such a leap between school and university, our Study Skills Tutors will offer their top tips on how you can get the best start in your studies.  Some examples are below:

Time Management

Allocate specific time slots for studying different subjects or topics. Use tools like planners or digital calendars to organise your study schedule. Break study sessions into manageable chunks to avoid burnout.

Active Learning

Engage with the material actively rather than passively. This includes taking notes, summarising key points in your own words, and asking questions to deepen understanding.

Effective Notetaking

Develop a note-taking system that works for you, whether it's bullet points, diagrams, or mind maps. Review and revise your notes regularly to reinforce learning.

Organisation

Keep your study materials well-organised, including textbooks, notes, and other resources. Use folders, binders, or digital tools to categorise and store information for easy retrieval.

Utilise Memory Techniques

Experiment with mnemonic devices, visualisation, and association techniques to improve memory retention. Practice retrieval by testing yourself regularly on the material.

Stay Focused

Minimise distractions during study sessions by finding a quiet, comfortable environment. Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break) to maintain focus and productivity.

Seek Understanding

Don't just memorise facts; strive to understand the underlying concepts and principles. Connect new information to what you already know to build a strong foundation of knowledge.

Practice Self-Care

Take care of your physical and mental wellbeing to optimise your study performance. Get enough sleep, eat healthily, exercise regularly, and take breaks to recharge.

Utilise Resources

Take advantage of available resources, such as textbooks, online tutorials, study groups, and academic support services. Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed.

Reflect and Adapt

Regularly reflect on your study habits and techniques to identify what's working well and what needs improvement. Be flexible and willing to adapt your approach as needed to achieve better results.

By incorporating these key points into your study routine, you can enhance your learning experience, improve retention, and ultimately achieve academic success.

Global Effective Learning Service

The Global Effective Learning Service aims to enhance learning and support students through the provision of workshops and 1:1 appointments.

They offer a number of study skills classes, through the Skills Hub, that are designed to helps students achieve their academic potential, covering topics such as:

  • Planning and organising (time management, organising coursework and balancing priorities).
  • Academic goal setting and maintaining motivation.
  • Effective note-taking and note-making strategies.
  • Critical reading and evaluating information.
  • Academic writing skills.
  • Revision and exam techniques.
  • Reflective learning practices.

Study Toolkit

With the abundance of study aids and apps nowadays, choosing the right ones can be overwhelming. Our Study Toolkit has a range of helpful tips and information on how to best manage your studies.

If you have disclosed a disability, or health condition to the university, we will send you an invite for the Study Smart event. Your advisor will also discuss this with you during your initial appointment before the semester starts.

Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)

Available to UK-domiciled students only.

This is additional funding which may be available to meet any additional study-related costs that a student may incur because of their disability. If you require any funded support, we will arrange another appointment to have your needs assessed for funding through DSA. Further information on DSA can be found on our website.

Assistive technology

Assistive technology is any device or software that can help you overcome barriers caused by your disability or learning difficulty.

There is additional information regarding assistive software on our website, including links to videos, guides and downloadable demos, as well as self-training material that you may wish to look at.

Key information

Disability Service

Phone
+44 (0) 131 451 3386
Email
disability@hw.ac.uk