Sir Richard Branson Launches Free Online University for Dyslexic Thinking

Sir Richard Branson Launches Free Online University for Dyslexic Thinking

Sir Richard Branson Unveils Free DyslexicU: Revolutionizing How We View Dyslexic Thinking

Sir Richard Branson has launched something truly transformative—DyslexicU, the world’s first free, online university aimed at celebrating and teaching dyslexic thinking. This ground-breaking initiative, created in partnership with global charity Made By Dyslexia, seeks to help people with dyslexia better understand their unique cognitive abilities, while also enabling non-dyslexic individuals to learn about and embrace these thinking patterns.

The importance of dyslexic thinking has gained attention in recent years, with experts highlighting the innovative, creative, and problem-solving strengths associated with it. In fact, Branson himself is a powerful example of how embracing these strengths can lead to success. At the launch, Sir Richard said, “From little acorns, oak trees grow,” reflecting the potential for DyslexicU to grow into a major educational resource.

Dyslexic Thinking: The Key to Creativity and Innovation

At its core, dyslexic thinking involves processing information in divergent, creative, and lateral ways. While conventional education systems often focus on linear thinking, dyslexics excel in areas requiring creativity and problem-solving. Sir Richard’s hope is that these courses will not only empower those with dyslexia but also help others appreciate and develop the skills of divergent thinking.

Launched alongside Kate Griggs, founder of Made By Dyslexia, DyslexicU provides free, on-demand courses aimed at fostering these skills. Guests at the launch, including Princess Beatrice and Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, who are also dyslexic, supported the initiative, recognizing the importance of nurturing dyslexic talents in today’s world.

How DyslexicU Is Shaping the Future of Education

Branson, who has long been an advocate for embracing dyslexic thinking, explained the need for this kind of educational resource. He mentioned the transformation in how society views dyslexia, saying, “When I was young, dyslexia wasn’t celebrated—it wasn’t even fully understood. But now, thanks to the work of people like Kate Griggs, we celebrate the unique talents of dyslexic individuals.”

DyslexicU aims to:

• Empower dyslexic individuals by helping them understand their strengths and how they can leverage their skills in the workplace.
• Educate non-dyslexics about the value of dyslexic thinking in problem-solving, creativity, and innovation.
• Bridge the gap between traditional learning and the kind of divergent thinking that dyslexics bring to the table, especially in the age of AI and technology.

Dyslexic Thinking in the Age of AI

One of the most exciting aspects of this initiative is how AI (artificial intelligence) is opening up new opportunities for dyslexic individuals. Branson spoke passionately about this, saying, “AI is giving dyslexics a boost. Dyslexic kids are naturally more creative, more resilient, and better at problem-solving—skills that are vital in the tech-driven world.”

AI complements dyslexic thinking by automating tasks that dyslexic individuals may find challenging, allowing them to focus on areas where they excel. This shift is significant as we move into what experts are calling the Fifth Industrial Revolution, where AI and human intelligence work side by side.

Kate Griggs and Made By Dyslexia have highlighted the findings of their Intelligence 5.0 report, which shows that dyslexic thinking skills are becoming increasingly essential in the modern workforce. A survey by YouGov of 5,000 people across the UK, US, India, and Australia found that dyslexic thinking is one of the top skills needed in the workplace.

Courses Offered at DyslexicU: Building Skills for Tomorrow’s Leaders

The courses available at DyslexicU, hosted by The Open University, aim to provide practical skills that help individuals harness the power of dyslexic thinking. Current offerings include:

• Entrepreneurs & Start-Up Mentality: A course designed to help dyslexic individuals channel their creativity into business success, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit that many dyslexics, including Branson himself, are known for.
• Changemakers & Activism: Focused on using dyslexic thinking to drive social change and innovation, this course aims to empower dyslexics to lead in the world of activism.

And this is just the beginning. More courses are on the way, aimed at helping dyslexics and non-dyslexics alike learn, grow, and adapt to the rapidly changing job market. The Made By Dyslexia team also plans to expand the curriculum to cover even more areas where dyslexic thinking can make a difference.

Why DyslexicU Matters: A Personal Journey for Sir Richard Branson

Sir Richard Branson’s story is a prime example of how embracing dyslexic thinking can lead to incredible success. He has often spoken about his struggles with traditional education and how his dyslexia actually became a strength in his business ventures.

“When I was young, I struggled in school. But my dyslexia taught me how to be resilient, how to solve problems, and how to think outside the box. These skills have been invaluable throughout my life,” Branson explained.

His personal journey reflects the mission of DyslexicU—to help others discover and embrace their own strengths. For dyslexic individuals who may have faced challenges in conventional education, this platform offers a fresh start and a way to tap into their full potential.

Changing the Narrative Around Dyslexia

For years, dyslexia was seen as a learning difficulty, but thanks to initiatives like DyslexicU, the narrative is changing. Now, dyslexia is recognized as a superpower in many fields, especially in creative industries and areas requiring innovation.

Branson summed it up perfectly: “It’s not just about dyslexic individuals learning about their strengths; it’s about everyone recognising that these skills are essential in the modern world.”

By providing access to free courses, DyslexicU is helping to democratize education and bring more understanding to the value of dyslexic thinking. It’s a small step toward a larger cultural shift, but as Branson said, “From little acorns, oak trees grow.”

Learn More:

• Dyslexic Thinking (https://madebydyslexia.org/)
• AI in Education (https://edtechmagazine.com/)
• Fifth Industrial Revolution (https://forbes.com/)
• Entrepreneurial Skills (https://entrepreneur.com/)
• The Open University (https://open.ac.uk/)