Coloured
overlays and reading
For
some people the process of viewing black print on white paper
can produce symptoms of visual discomfort, distortion of the text
and headaches. These problems are particularly common amongst
those who have reading difficulties and dyslexia. Many of these
symptoms can be relieved by the use of a specific colour. The
colour required in most cases will be unique to each person.
Helen
Irlen was one of the first to promote the beneficial effects of
coloured filters. Further research studies were conducted by Professor
Wilkins in collaboration with members of the Irlen Institute and
subsequently independently of this organisation. Wilkins' research
was conducted at the Visual Perception Unit in the Psychology
Department at the University of Essex, UK.
Coloured
overlays were shown to reduce visual stress and increase reading
fluency in about 20% of school children. In 5% of children the
increase in speed with overlays is greater than 25%. Coloured
overlays are in common use in schools.
The effect of coloured overlays on children's reading is fully
documented in:
"Prolonged
use of coloured overlays for classroom reading." British Journal
of Psychology, vol 88, 531-548. Wilkins, AJ, Lewis, E, Smith,
F., Rowland, E., Tweedie, W. (2001) and "Coloured overalys and
their benefit for reading." Journal of Research and Reading, 24,
41-64.
Before
considering the possible use of colour it is essential that a
full eye-examination should be carried out as a visual anomaly
may be the result of a need for an ocular correction or for visual
training.
Return to The Evidence
|
