top of page

How Is The Davis Method Different From Other Approaches?

Ron Davis believes that dyslexia is a result of an inherent mental gift or talent. People who develop dyslexia think in pictures, rather than words; they are imaginative and creative; and they try to solve problems by looking at the whole picture, rather than working step-by-step. Davis Dyslexia Correction relies on using the mental talents that dyslexic people share to overcome the learning problems. To do this, students must learn and follow a different approach to learning.

When dyslexic students recognize their mental talents, they develop a renewed sense of self-esteem and confidence.W hen they start to employ study methods which capitalize on their talents, progress is very rapid.

The Davis Method Does Not Rely On Instructions Based On Phonics

Since dyslexic students think in pictures, they have difficulty thinking with the sounds of words, and thus it is difficult for them to try to read by breaking words down into component sounds.

If a student has been working with Phonic based programs and little to no progress is being made - it is not the student ---it is the phonics. No matter how many times you try - pushing a square peg into a round hole ---it's not going to fit.

The Davis Method Does Not Employ Repetition Or Drill

Dyslexic students have a hard time remembering thing that they do not fully understand. Repetition and drill are a waste of time for them, and only increases their frustration because they will not retain information unless they understand where it fits into the "big picture"

Try to memorize a paragraph of a foreign language that you can not pronounce most words nor know the meaning. Repeat this paragraph constantly for a week, then walk away from it. One month later try to repeat the paragraph from memory.....how well did you do? Repetition does not give you knowledge and understanding.

The Davis Method Does Not Rely On Physical Devices Such As Coloured Overlays or Large Print Books

Dyslexia is a way of thinking, and is not a result of problems with vision or hearing. While some physical devices may seem to make reading and writing easier, the use of such devices does not help the dyslexic student function normally.

Using these tools in everyday life is not practical. Work is not going to adjust all written work to accommodate using these tools, Things in life are not written as "regular" and "special print for dyslexics" In general the use of these Physical Devises is like talking to someone who does not understand your language. They hear you but no matter how loud you get, they are still not going to understand.  

The Davis Method Does Not Rely On Medications or Herbal Treatments

It is important for dyslexic students to take control of their own learning. Since dyslexia is not a disease or a psychiatric ailment, medications are not appropriate, and will only hinder the student's learning abilities.

There is a time and a place for medication or herbal treatments. Dealing with picture thinking is not one of them. Learning how to use the gift of thinking in pictures is the best way - for life long results - in all aspects of life.

bottom of page