FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Help is on the way for students that suffer from dyslexia. One University of Arkansas professor developed curriculum to make it easier for those with the disorder.
David Hanson, professor and dyslexic therapist, developed a program here at the UofA that could help those with dyslexia.
“Right now we have a literacy problem on our hands in this country. We don’t have a lot of people that can read,” Hanson said.
David Hanson understands the difficulties of dyslexia. As a kid he was diagnosed with the learning disorder. His goal is to help people with their dyslexia.
“It takes a community. It takes a village, so let me guide you,” Hanson said. “You can reach me anytime via email or stop by my office any days but just know that you are not alone.”
Hanson works at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children in Dallas to get certification to help the UofA. He said he will also develop a course to help cope with dyslexia.
“I know college students here struggle with it, there are tons,” Hanson said. “One in five Americans are considered dyslexic or have the characteristics of dyslexia, so they are out there.”
Lauren Jackson was diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of seven. She said she is excited about the program and hopes it helps student like herself.
“It makes me feel awesome. While I have learned to cope with my dyslexia, I am sure other people haven’t learned to cope with their dyslexia,” Jackson said. “So it is great that the university is giving people the opportunity to feel okay with their struggle.”
Hanson completed dyslexia training four years ago. He has spent more than 700 hours with about 80 students to bring therapy to those in need.