DycScreen—Cross-Platform Dyslexia Screening Test for Malaysian Children Through Hybrid Applications

Abstract

This research is carried out to identify potentially dyslexics among children in Malaysia. Identifying dyslexics among the children in Malaysia has been a difficult task. This is due to lack of comprehensive screening tests in Malaysia and most of the available screening tests are expensive. Indicators of dyslexia are differs for specific age groups, for instance, the identification for children is focusing more in problems learning the alphabets, numbers, shapes and colors. The identification for adults is however more advance in which the focus would be in terms of the written works and achievements in studies. The existing screening test applications are expensive while the free applications are incomprehensive and lacking of useful features. The screening test will be developed using hybrid applications approach as it provides cross-platform access which allowed users to conduct the screening test according to their preference either through personal computers, desktops, or mobile devices. Initial study shows that currently in Malaysia, there is no screening test which developed using hybrid applications approach. The conventional approach requires the person to perform manual screening test conducted by the expert at the Dyslexia Centres to confirm the disabilities and some fees will be charged. Having a localized screening test is crucial as Malaysian education system is differs from other countries. Hence, it is important for individuals to indicate whether they are dyslexics because many of them suffered in studies without knowing that they are actually dyslexics. Dyslexics can have a better opportunity in life if they were given early remediation, intervention, and support from corresponding society. Identifying dyslexics does not only benefit the dyslexics but also to guardians and countries.