27 September 2024
In an inspiring collaboration with the charity organisation Made By Dyslexia, Richard Branson has launched DyslexicU, the world’s first online university dedicated to harnessing and teaching Dyslexic Thinking skills. Hosted by The Open University, this free and accessible platform aims to empower individuals around the globe by unlocking the strengths of dyslexic minds.
As a dyslexic himself, Branson has long been a champion of alternative learning methods. In a launch video for the new institution, he explained: “For too long, traditional learning environments have ignored the game-changing, creative, and emotional intelligence that has solved many of mankind’s greatest challenges. Our way of thinking has never been encouraged by the old school of thought. In fact, it’s never been taught by any school of thought, until now.”
DyslexicU aims to address this gap by promoting Dyslexic Thinking as a unique and valuable cognitive approach. According to Made By Dyslexia, Dyslexic Thinking skills are defined as an innovative problem-solving approach that involves pattern recognition, spatial reasoning, lateral thinking, and interpersonal communication — qualities that often come naturally to people with dyslexia.
Recognised as a skill on LinkedIn, Dyslexic Thinking is increasingly acknowledged as a powerful asset in various industries. The courses offered by DyslexicU are designed not only for dyslexics looking to learn more about their thinking skills but also for those outside the dyslexic community to better understand how these skills work in action and why they are so valuable.
Branson’s vision is to create a platform that celebrates these cognitive strengths and shows the world the incredible potential of Dyslexic Thinking. “The university brings together many of the world’s greatest dyslexics to share how their thinking has driven innovation and success, offering a blueprint for others to follow,” he said.
DyslexicU has already attracted contributions from high-profile figures including HRH Princess Beatrice, award-winning space scientist Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, and Jean Oelwang, CEO of Virgin Unite. Each course offers personal insights into how Dyslexic Thinking has propelled their careers and shaped their industries.
The launch includes foundational courses such as Entrepreneurs & Start-up Mentality and Changemakers & Activism, with future courses set to explore a wide range of topics including storytelling, sport, fashion, culinary arts, and music.
