Jane Jarrow

Michael, I think we are interpreting the word "challenge" differently. I was suggesting that the stated requirements are open to LEGAL challenge (as in, the technical standards are discriminatory in the way they are written). You have to find a way to work with your colleagues from that department to try to get them to recognize the inflexibility of their policies (and the impact), while still being straightforward with the student about the uphill battle he/she may face within your institution because of those existing (restrictive) technical standards. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Michael, You are right, of course. There is rarely only one way or one setting in which to use the information learned, and everyone (disabled or not) gravitates to their strengths and interests. Our job is to educate students -- their job is to decide what they want to do with that knowledge. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Vickey, I agree. There is rarely a need for the faculty member to know EVERYTHING that is in a student's file. We guard that information carefully to protect the privacy of the student. Instructors only need to know as much information as is pertinent to understand what THEIR role is in working with the student. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Dennis , That's kind of the point -- you shouldn't NEED to change what you teach for students with disabilities. You teach that content for a reason, and you have found a method that is effective for most students. The idea is simply to adapt the delivery, IF NEEDED, so that that student with a disability is presented with the same information and experiences as others in a format they can use. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Yours is a really remarkable story, Kevin, because it doesn't involve the individual "overcoming" disability or doing anything "in spite of their disability." Rather, this gentleman was lucky enough to be in touch with someone (you!) who saw potential and was willing to think creatively about managing the situation and about options that would work (instead of focusing on problems that would prohibit!). Good for you!!! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Kevin, You are right -- you cannot change time limits on someone else's exam -- but THEY can. Under the law, they have to have some process established to allow someone with a disability to request such an accommodation. Your job would simply be to get them in touch with the right people. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Kevin, Did you know that both Robin Williams and Whoopi Goldberg have described their school history in just that way? They both have ADHD, and they were both known as the class clowns because it gave them a chance to be noticed for something positive, rather than negative. I can't think of two more creative talents than the two of them! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Kevin, That is exactly why the law doesn't provide any lesser level of protection to one person with a disability than another. Not only is disability not always obvious -- impact of the disability is not always obvious, either. You are right on target here. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Michael, You have just touched on an important issue. We are told that we should not promise any job, salary, or future event for ANYONE. And yet, when the student has a disability, some would suggest that simply *because* you can't promise any job or salary for THIS student, he or she shouldn't pursue the field. We have to let all students, including students with disabilities, decide for themselves, and make their way forward as they can! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Kevin, This is exactly this kind of thing we like to hear about in the context of focusing on someone's Abilities, instead of their DISabilities. There are many ways to use someone's talents, and very few fields of endeavor don't provide for an opportunity to perform (and excel) in more than one way. Dr. Jane Jarrow