Page 92 - SEN113 SEN Magazine July-August 2021-V3

Book reviews Book reviews Mythbusting for Trainee Teachers J. Glazzard & S. Stones Professor Glazzard is based at the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools, and his co- author is a doctoral student, lecturer and researcher at Leeds Beckett University. In this book, they explore some key educational myths and they begin by pointing out that schools and teachers need to be trusted to use their own initiative and to make pedagogical decisions that are in the best interests of their students. At the same time, school leaders and teachers are demonstrating greater interest in evidence-based educational practices that justify funding, as well as proven effectiveness in the classroom. The chapters follow a similar format, beginning with ‘What will you learn?’ and key points about the particular myth. This is followed by research references, case studies, strategies and a guide to further reading. The chapter on differentiation is interesting in the evidence the authors outline, to make the case that the notion of differentiation is often misunderstood and associated with streaming and in-class ability grouping. They provide a number of strategies for teachers to try out, based on its capacity to produce both academic and motivational aims. The chapters in this book are concise, well-structured and it is clear that they rest on an extensive research background. They provide the reader with information that can have a significant impact on the ways in which teaching and learning can be adjusted to meet the needs of all students, without reliance on, or belief in, pervading pedagogical myths. Overall, this is an excellent guide to the subject. Learning Matters (Sage Publishing) ISBN: 978-1-5297-0986-5 £23.99 Auditory Processing Disorder (APD): Identification , Diagnosis and Strategies for Parents and Professionals A. Mountjoy 92 Alyson Mountjoy is the founder of APD Support UK, with over 20 years experience of supporting families, as well as researching and writing about APD. She also has related personal experience, as her son has a diagnosis of APD. The book is based on the author’s ‘journey’ starting almost twenty years ago, when looking for answers for her son. In this book, she aims to provide accessible and objective information about what it is like to live with APD and to dispel myths and misinformation around this diagnosis. Mountjoy stresses the advice to help students with APD by recognising that they may show all the signs of listening , but understanding that they are not actually able to make sense of what is being said. In the chapter on ‘Additions’, Mountjoy provides an outline of other conditions that may be associated with APD, and points out that Autism, ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorder can all be confused with APD. She also states that APD is not a learning difficulty, but can cause them in many children. This is a useful and practical text that is reassuring and informative, written from both a professional and personal perspective. Jessica Kingsley Publishers ISBN: 978-1-78775-282-5 £19.99 SEN113 senmagazine.co.uk