Towards inclusive CALL for Irish: A game-based approach for dyslexic students informed by an English language pilot study

Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) enables learners to progress at their own pace, moving quickly through familiar material and spending more time on areas that require additional support. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for learners with specific learning differences such as dyslexia, where targeted digital interventions can enhance reading and language outcomes. In Ireland, Irish is a compulsory subject in most schools; however, there are limited resources to support dyslexic students, particularly in Irish-medium education. This paper reports on the development and evaluation of a digital game-based language learning approach designed to support dyslexic learners. Findings from a pilot study with dyslexic students using an English-language version of the game provide insights into design strategies and learner engagement. The study discusses key challenges and outlines a roadmap for developing inclusive CALL resources for the Irish language, contributing to a broader understanding of how technology can support equitable language learning.