- Information about screenings
- What are the main indicators of specific learning difficulties?
- Outcomes of an SpLD screening
- What are the main indicators of autism?
- Outcomes of an autism screening
Information about screenings
You can make an appointment with the Disability Advisory Service to have a screening for specific learning difficulties (SpLDs) or autism.
- Disability advisers carry out autism screenings
- The Dyslexia/SpLD team carry out SpLD screenings.
Information about screenings
Autism and SpLD screenings
If you are within three months of leaving Imperial, you will not be able to have a screening.
SpLD screenings
If you have (or have had) an identified mental health condition, physical health condition or sensory impairment please meet with a disability advisor first.
SpLD screenings
Screenings and assessments are not carried out for individual SpLDs. Dyslexia, characteristics of dyspraxia DCD and characteristics of ADHD will be assessed together in most cases. It is a learning-based assessment that will only lead to possible support and exam arrangements. The medical model of assessment for AD(H)D differs in both approach and outcomes in that it is a single condition assessment, and it can lead to a prescription for medication. Imperial has no influence over this process. For students registered with Imperial College Health Centre there is further guidance.
What are the main indicators of specific learning difficulties?
Problems with acquiring:
- Reading accuracy/speed
- Spelling accuracy, writing speed and fluency of expression
- Auditory short term/working memory
- Time awareness
- Directional sense
- Personal organisation
- Speed of processing (facts, thoughts and ideas)
- Attention and concentration
- Motor skills
- Common strengths
Common strengths:
- Often highly creative
- Persistent
- See patterns, connections and similarities that others don’t see
- Holistic: they see the big picture, don’t get lost in detail, get to the important aspects
- Understanding of abstract ideas
- An inclination to think outside the box
Outcomes of an SpLD screening
Screening doesn't suggest an SpLD
What are the main indicators of autism?
Problems may exist in some or all of the following key areas:
- Spoken communication: making conversation and understanding what other people say and mean
- Non-verbal communication: body language, eye contact, facial expressions
- Understanding the complexities of social relationships
- Coping with change, particularly if sudden or unexpected
- Heightened sensitivity in one or more senses, for example in relation to certain noises or textures
Common strengths:
- An eye for detail
- Preference for clarity and transparency
- Plain speaking
- Embracing routine and planning
- Following rules and regulations