Dyslexia research and replicability: Should we be worried?
December 10, 2025·
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0 min read
Anna Yi Leung
Shared first-authorship
,Tatiana Logvinenko
Shared first-authorship
,Xenia Schmalz
Abstract
Replicability has become a heated issue in empirical science. In interdisciplinary fields, such as dyslexia research, replications are deemed challenging due to the linguistic, cognitive, and contextual complexity of literacy. We discuss whether dyslexia research faces a replicability crisis and the implications of replicability issues for researchers, educators, and practitioners. We examine potential causes of low replicability specific to dyslexia studies, including conceptual, methodological, and statistical variances observed in the context of psycho‐ and neurolinguistics. We argue that understanding the sources of variability is crucial for distinguishing between non‐replication and non‐generalization. Embracing variability while increasing transparency and specificity in scientific reports can ultimately help build robust theories in dyslexia research. We advocate for the development of valid instruments, along with the promotion of individual difference research and large‐scale replications, to inform researchers and practitioners on what can make dyslexia research more replicable.
Type
Publication
Mind, Brain, and Education
Authors
Research Scientist in Psycholinguistics and Metascience
I am a doctoral researcher specialising in psycholinguistics and reading development. My work explores the cognitive mechanisms of how we learn to read, with a focus on subtyping dyslexia to provide personalised support. Committed to metascience, I integrate open science practices to ensure my research is robust and transparent. Beyond the lab, I am passionate about bridging the gap between science and education. Through Open Education initiatives, I translate complex linguistic theories into practical, evidence-based resources for researchers, teachers, and clinicians. I am dedicated to empowering the global community, supporting diverse learners in our unique and vibrant multilingual environment.
Authors
Authors