ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the book and key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. This book describes the term 'specific learning difficulties'. People have made the point that assessment is a process and not a 'one stop shop' Ideally it should involve a number of professionals as well as parents, but the key to a successful assessment is communication. The publication of the British Psychological Society (BPS) working party report on dyslexia and assessment in 1999 certainly helped psychologists a great deal and provided a clearer pathway to follow, but the majority of psychologists are working under the auspices of the education authority and this, to a great extent, has had an impact on their working practices. Additionally, people have to consider regulations from examination centres and the Joint Qualifications Council (JQC) regarding the type and quality of information they need in order to authorise examinations accommodations.
