Dubai Women's College expert participates in an international learning disabilities conference

The Tata Learning Disabilities Forum (TLDF), organized by Global e-learning developer Tata Interactive Systems (TIS), explored new methods of overcoming learning disabilities among young learners, with special focus on issues facing children. Al Mazam and Ahmad Shareef from Dubai Men's College were nominated to attend this conference by Dr. Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), and Dr. Howard Reed, Senior Director at HCt, and DWC Director.

A significant number of international deans, academicians, publishers, and decision-makers in the fields of Learning Disability (LD) and Special Needs Education discussed a variety of LD issues including LD movement in India, biological basis of LD, types of LD (Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia and ADHD), remedial techniques, medical aspects of LD, technology solutions, procedures for assessment, case studies, and social and emotional aspects of LD. The symposium offered a great networking opportunity for all participants to share ideas, innovations and future cooperation on LD issues.

"The symposium succeeded at highlighting the major issues educators need to tackle while working with students who have learning disabilities. Recently, the UAE has been paying more attention to this issue and trying to increase awareness among its people on LD behavior and remedies," Al Mazam noted.

Al Mazam added that the symposium provided critical information on opportunities available to train the HCT staff to deal with underperforming students so that the Colleges can provide appropriate accommodation for them once they are enrolled. "This training will add much value to our educational system since it will enhance our abilities to accommodate all groups of society and encourage them to develop both socially and professionally," she said.

DWC is also helping raise LD awareness among its students who had recently attended a workshop on Special Needs in the UAE and were encouraged to volunteer for the Special Olympics 5th MENA Regional Games which were held in Dubai from 11-15 of November.