Training second-grade dyslexic students using a computerized program in Asyut, Egypt

Background: Dyslexia is characterized by difficulties in spelling and reading. The aim of this study is to identify domains of cognitive strength and weakness of students with dyslexia and to study the effect of an especially designed computerized training program on their reading abilities. This study was conducted on 2nd-grade primary school students in Asyut city, Egypt (n = 560). Identification of students with dyslexia was done using Arabic Reading Achievement test and a newly constructed computerized Arabic Cognitive Abilities diagnostic battery for Reading (CADB-R). Training was applied using a newly constructed Computerized Cognitive abilities training battery for reading (CATB-R). Results: The prevalence of dyslexia was 13.9% (N = 52/373), and it was higher among girls (15.8%) than boys (11.7%). After application of the training program, there was a significant increase in post-training mean scores of CADB-R score in their total and all sub-items. Conclusions: All struggling readers should be included in well-tailored research-based rehabilitation programs.