Frequently Asked Questions from Direct Learning Course and Dyslexia Test Providers

On this page, we have put a selection of answers to questions which Course and Test Providers have asked. This page should be read in conjunction with our pages:

Dyslexia Certificate Course Providers and

Dyslexia Assessment Providers.

Synthetic Phonics Course Providers.

Is it hard getting started?

Expect a steep learning curve when you first start as a Direct Learning Provider. There is a lot to learn by experience, and it can help if your first group as a Course Provider is small. You can then learn from your experience with this small group and gradually build up to larger groups as you become more confident. It's hard work, especially to start with, but always remember that you are providing an invaluable service which will help many, many children.

When should I order test booklets?

Most Providers order a copy of each of our tests so that they have a test booklet ready to start when a parent contacts them. Remember to send us an email immediately after ordering so that we can refund your 10% discount back onto your card.

Should I do the test alone with a child or with the parents present?

Always do the test with the child in the presence of the parents, so that you are never alone with a child. In some countries, teachers have been taken to court when a parent has accused them of molesting their child.

Are there any quotas?

There are no quotas for the number of students you must train, or the number of tests you must carry out. You can be flexible and work at your own pace.

What if I receive no enquiries when I advertise? Will I be struck off your list of Providers?

You will certainly not be struck off our list if you receive no enquiries! However, you may find other advertising techniques more productive in reaching people who might be interested. Some Providers contact local schools with a flyer, or ask to speak to the school staff about the course. Other Providers have contacted their Ministry of Education in order to find a list of schools; a helpful suggestion is that every school should have at least one teacher who is trained to use synthetic phonics or to teach a dyslexic child, and to advise colleagues. Local radio can also be a way of advertising the course.

May I use the name 'Direct Learning' and the World of Dyslexia logo in my advertisements?

Yes, provided that you make it clear to anyone who enquires that you are not a company member or representative of Direct Learning. You should make it clear that you are an independent agent who uses Direct Learning materials. The Direct Learning logo may be copied from our website.

Can I translate the course book into my own language?

Our Dyslexia Certificate course book has been translated into Arabic, but there are many difficulties involved in translation. In general, the costs are high and the process can only be undertaken with financial backing from, for example, the Ministry of Education in your country. In the first instance, it is better to proceed with the course for English speakers and, if you are still seeking to translate, to contact us after a year or so to ask our opinion.

Can I advertise on the World of Dyslexia websites?

You may place a free advertisement on our Free Ads pages, and, if you send us your details, we will give you a free listing on our Local Groups pages [1] [2].

Can I start my own website?

Yes. Some Providers have already done this, and there is free webspace available at Yahoo. Examples are: Dyslexia Macao, Kuwait, Texas Dyslexia Services.

What market research can I do?

You could ask around among your friends to find out which newspaper they read, which will probably be the same newspaper which concerned parents with a dyslexic child may read. You could also try to find a list of local schools, perhaps in a local library or local council offices, so that you could send a leaflet to the special needs teacher there, or go along and ask to speak to the headteacher to ascertain interest. You could also try to find out how to contact your local radio station: perhaps a phone-in call from yourself might get some parents replying ans allow you to judge whether there are interested listeners.

Can people in my area still order the Direct Learning courses or tests on their own?

Yes, they can. Direct Learning tests, the Synthetic Phonics Course and the Dyslexia Certificate course are available on the Internet, and people in your area may still order on their own if they see our websites. However, people who do not have Internet access may be interested to hear about your course and/or tests.

Can I combine a testing service with tutoring?

Yes, you can, and the test Report will give you a detailed analysis of a child's difficulties. However, you should make a point of reassuring parents that their child's assessment will be objectively carried out by another specialist, so that parents do not suspect that you will diagnose every child as dyslexic in order to be able to take them on as a pupil.

Can the dyslexia test be used to diagnose a child whose first language is not English?

No. Direct Learning dyslexia tests are only suitable for children whose first language is English or who have grown up fully bilingual in English and another language.

What should I say to people who want to take the course and then start tutoring dyslexic children?

In order to tutor dyslexic children, a person must be a fully qualified, experienced teacher in their own country, as well as having a qualification in dyslexia, such as the Dyslexia Certificate, or, if possible, a Diploma in Dyslexia.

Any further questions?
Please email them to us and we will answer them?