Tackling learning difficulties in Academic Workplace

Learning disabilities have significant impact on individuals and society for instance in regard to declining reading abilities and dyslexia. The Academic Workplace Rudolf Berlin Center (AW RBC) aims to make a meaningful contribution by supporting young people with learning disabilities through enhanced education and care. At the core of the AW RBC’s mission is valorisation—ensuring that scientific knowledge is not only developed but also practically applied.

Since 2012, the Rudolf Berlin Center (RBC) has been focused on bridging research, education, practice, and policy in the field of learning disabilities. This unique blend of clinical expertise and research capabilities has now evolved into the Academic Workplace Rudolf Berlin Center (AW RBC). This expansion includes partnerships with RID Taal en Rekenen and the UvA’s Psychology department, and the Pedagogical and Educational Sciences.

A lot of research is being done on normal and abnormal reading development. These results then provide input for the dyslexia treatment as it is given at RID. Another example of research implementation is project #BOOK which sets out to improve reading development (technical reading and reading comprehension), reading motivation and social-emotional development.

Through the social impact of research-based knowledge, AW RBC strives to foster an inclusive society where people with learning disabilities can reach their full potential.

Elise de Bree, professor of Orthopedagogics of the University of Amsterdam:

“From the Department of Pedagogical & Educational Sciences of the UvA, we are happy to contribute to an inclusive society in which people with learning disabilities can optimally develop their potential through our expertise.”

Albert Wijnen now retired Impact Developer at IXA:

IXA evaluated the existing RID-UvA collaboration and sought a public-private partnership suited to RBC’s future challenges. Various models were explored, and the Academic Workplace (AW)—already familiar to the department—proved ideal. This model allows both parties to contribute balanced, in-kind support, enabling evidence-based research while also providing market-aligned products and services.

Over the coming years, the AW RBC will deepen its collaborations with stakeholders from educational and care sectors, as well as with policymakers, to strengthen the practical implementation and dissemination of research findings.