Most dyslexic readers have a problem processing the sounds of language, something we call phonological awareness. However, it may be possible that in addition to problems with phonological awareness, dyslexic readers also have a very subtle visual problem. Some dyslexic readers appear to have a problem in transmitting visual information that is carried by a single part of the visual neural pathway. The consequence of this is that they may have problems in integrating fast visual signals over time, which may result in difficulties in synthesising the visual characteristics of text when reading, and/or visually navigating within a word and across a page.

Exactly how this visual problem relates to dyslexia, and problems in phonological awareness is currently being investigated by Dr Kristen Pammer. Of further interest is how the brain manages to compensate for reading difficulties in some individuals, while other individuals remain functionally reading impaired all their life.