A study of the awareness, identification, diagnosis and management of Auditory Processing Disorder in children and its impact within a Dubai based private primary school

Abstract

This investigation focuses on professionals’ current awareness, knowledge, identification, diagnosis and management of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) working with primary aged English speaking children in Dubai and explores the impact on one specific child with suspected APD.

It provides an overview of how the deficiency of a comprehensive definition has led to no general conformity in assessment, diagnosis and treatment. This is amplified in Dubai where there is no comprehensive ‘care pathway’ for non-local, expatriate children. Private schools, in the majority, are profit making ventures, as are clinics wherein the professionals do not work collectively and legislation to protect people with Special Education Needs is in its infancy. It reviews the current practices within a school with regards identifying a child with suspected APD.

Recommendations are made concerning future professional development, collaboration between parties, and including the Ministry of Education.