Advice needed on coaching dyslexic for map-reading test -- Dyslexia Adults Link

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Subject:

Advice needed on coaching dyslexic for map-reading test

Author:
K-9 handler (Optimistic)

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Date Posted: 07:55:17 06/18/09 Thu

I am a search and rescued K-9 handler who is mentoring a new team. Both the dog and the handler show great promise but, unfortunately, the handler is dyslexic and has great difficulty with reading a topographical map and relating the map to the reality of the terrain in the search area.

I really believe in this team's ability to make a contribution to saving lives, but unless the handler can conquer the map issues the team will not be able to pass their certification test.

Does anyone have any ideas on how to help him to look at a map, understand his location with respect to the map, understand the topography, and develop a way to walk through the area on the map always knowing where he is?

I am not dyslexic myself and have no experience with this challenge.

Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

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Replies:

[> Subject: Re: Advice needed on coaching dyslexic for map-reading test

Author:
John (Good hunting)
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Date Posted: 13:47:44 06/25/09 Thu

Sound like your handler needs a specialist therapist in adaptations for dyslexia, but ...

Learning Style elements that may influence your handler�s map reading success could be:

� a need to talk to others in order to grasp complexities
� a tactile learning style
� a kinesthetic learning style
� a preference for auditory input

Auditory input would probably need to be a talking GPS system for the type of terrains you may deal with. I hope that exists. I would think you would have to trial the GPS system with your handler if you find one.

Good hunting,
John

[> Subject: Re: Advice needed on coaching dyslexic for map-reading test

Author:
Alix
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Date Posted: 23:43:42 06/27/09 Sat

I am going to be a little bit tougher than our friend John. The whole unit should not fail because of one person who is having problems with map reading.

Take this person out onto an area where there are no reference points such as mountains or rivers etc. At high noon would be the best. Have him drive and take around about way. Standing in the middle of this field ask him to point to north, south, east and west. Of course you would have to know the answers.

The reason for this test to see if he is directionally impaired. If he is impaired, then the job he is working for is not for him. A poor job match.

If he can identify the four directions, then he should be given all the help he needs. Call your local chapter of Dyslexia Association of America. Do a search on Google.

Since he loves working with dogs, maybe there will be a better job working with the animals.

If he cannot be trained, if you can, set him up with a job that includes working with the dogs. Dumping him would be a disaster and a waste of his abilities.

Take care and thank you for asking for our help. It shows that you are a very caring person. This is appreciated.

Alix - A very directionly impaired, hard of hearing, dyslexic. I get lost in Phoenix all the time.

[> Subject: Re: Advice needed on coaching dyslexic for map-reading test
Author: John (Navigators) [ Edit \| View ]	Date Posted: 00:55:20 06/28/09 Sun Would it be possible to have, say retired persons, volunteer as map readers and navigators by satellite phone? If the department would wear the cost, staff navigators could do the support job, or even the radio room. Physical manoeuvres supplied by the handler, navigation by support of whatever kind. Brainstorming over and out.