What is Dyslexia? Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Dyslexia refers to a cluster of symptoms, which result in people having difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading. Students with dyslexia usually experience difficulties with other language skills such as spelling, writing, and pronouncing words. Dyslexia affects individuals throughout their lives; however, its impact can change at different stages in a person’s life. It is referred to as a learning disability because dyslexia can make it very difficult for a student to succeed academically in the typical instructional environment, and in its more severe forms, will qualify a student for special education, special accommodations, or extra support services (International Dyslexia Association).

Who should take these courses and webinars? Our courses are designed to serve teachers, parents, administrators, service providers, tutors, literacy coordinators, educational therapists and advocates, who wants to improve their knowledge of dyslexia and their ability to help those affected by dyslexia. Anyone with a computer and an internet connection can participate from anywhere in the world.

How often do I need to log in? Once your class session begins, you can log on anytime. You are not required to sign on as soon as the class begins. The course is available to you 24 hours per day / 7 days a week for the duration of the course. You can log in and out at any time, but do not need to stay logged on for prolonged periods of time unless you are actively engaged in the coursework for the class. You determine the amount of time you spend online – there is no minimum time requirement.

What does an online course include? We use an online instructional management system (Icohere.com) that includes discussion threads, live chats, webinars, announcements, email capability, and networking opportunities. The content of each course is available to you in syllabus form under the description of each course.

What is a webinar? A webinar is live conference that takes place on the internet. You can see and hear the presenter via the presenter’s webcam. You will have the opportunity to ask questions of the presenters via your keyboard or microphone.

Do I need special technology or equipment? You can access our site from any computer that has internet access. The webinars only require the ability to watch video on your computer.

How often are the instructors online? Dr. Kelli and Tracy are available and online throughout the day between 9:00-4:00 PST. We are on intermittently during the off hours. This is an instructor-led format and we will be answering your questions and guiding the discussions during the course of the class.

What if I need technical support? Technical support is available to you during business hours and technical problems are solved as quickly as possible and usually within the hour (during business hours).

What do I need to do if I want the optional Graduate Level Extension Credits? Graduate Level Extension Credits are available through the University of San Diego (USD). Information for registering for the Graduate Level Extension Credits will be available to you once you are on the class site. There will be a specific discussion thread outlining the requirements to receive the credits and link for registering. You do not need to officially apply to the University of San Diego. You will only register for the specific course you are taking. Please note there is an additional fee paid directly to the University of San Diego for the Graduate Level Extension Credits. The current fee is $75 per credit. Each course is two Graduate Level Extension Credits, so the fee for the credits for each course is $150, with the exception of our Dyslexia Advocate Certificate Program, which is three credits ($225). This fee is not included in the fee you paid to register to participate in our course on our website.

The Graduate Level Extension Credits are generally used for educator’s certification requirements, salary enhancement purposes and/or transferred to a degree program. However, it is the responsibility of the participant to consult with their organization requiring the credits for certifications, salary enhancement or degrees to ensure the Graduate Level Extension Credits issued from USD will fulfill the specified requirements.

USD is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and has a complete teacher training program.

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