1944 - 2008
BA, Dip Ed, MEd (Hons), PhD, MAPsS
The educational community locally, nationally and internationally has been saddened by the recent passing of Greg Robinson, a member of the School of Education in the Faculty of Education and Arts at The University of Newcastle.
Greg practiced and researched in the area of literacy problems and dyslexia for 35 years. He initially worked as a regular classroom teacher and then became a psychologist in schools providing support for students with learning and behaviour problems. He soon became aware of the significant emotional, social and behavioural problems faced by students with reading problems/dyslexia and developed a specialist counsellor role in providing support for such people. After 5 years in this role, he took up a position as Lecturer in special education at the Hunter Institute of Higher Education. This appointment involved teacher training in the area of learning disabilities/dyslexia, as well as providing a clinic for children with literacy problems. This appointment was followed by a position as Senior Lecturer in the Special Education Centre, University of Newcastle, which involved coordination of the Master of Special Education program as well as the development of a clinic for people with learning disabilities/dyslexia. This clinic incorporated the Irlen Method and was a focus for research into the nature and effects of Irlen syndrome from its inception.
Dr Robinson was promoted to Associate Professor in 2001 as a result of his research on the underlying causes of Irlen syndrome and dyslexia, as well as his work on developing effective support systems. Following his retirement Greg continued as an Honorary Associate of the university. He published widely in the area of learning disabilities and Irlen syndrome, including numerous book chapters, over 70 articles in peer reviewed journals, over 50 other articles and over 50 refereed conference presentations. He was always in strong demand for presentations at national and international conferences, often as a keynote speaker.
Most importantly, Greg was a person who loved people. He always strived to improve the life experiences of people he supported and genuinely cared about their needs. He is sadly missed. Our heartfelt condolences go to Bev, Luke, Meghan and Greg's wider family.
