Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

William, It is always gratifying to hear such reports of success of students with significant disabilities in fields that seem to be so far outside the realm of possibility. It reminds all of us that we shouldn't make assumptions about the A-bilities, based on the DIS-ability! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Physical Disability

You have given exactly the right answer for exactly the right reason, Edward. If we are going to treat all students the same, regardless of disability, then we give all students the right to make their own decisions as to how they use the information they learn. THAT is what these laws are all about! Dr. Jane Jarrow Facilitator

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Need to Know?

Jessica, Excellent, Jessica... and please don't feel that anything I said would suggest that it is inappropriate with you to talk to the student directly about their disability if they choose to share more. The intent is simply to make it comfortable for the student to share as much (and only as much) as is comfortable. An open and inviting instructor will hear more about everything from one student's disability to another student's work-related commitments, to another student's difficulties with housing or transportation -- and all of it can be helpful in your being better able to understand the student… >>>

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Reality Check!

Sue, I had to smile as I read your post. All I could think of what "The Little Engine That Could" ("I think I can, I think I can!"). And we all know that the Little Engine succeeded, despite the odds, because no one prevented her from having a shot at it! GRIN Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Need to Know?

Sue, I am wondering if you need more information about the student's disability, or more information about the student's NEEDS. I don't know how active the disability services office is at your institution, but I would hope that they would be providing you significant direction about the necessary accommodations for each student. If you want to follow that up with further discussion directly with the student, it may provide you with further insight. Generally, though, specific information about the student's disability should only come from the student, not from anyone else. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Rock and a Hard Place?

James, I agree -- but sometimes it is difficult for folks to give up what feels "comfortable" and "safe" because they have been doing things the same way for a very long time. It becomes a challenge -- though not an impossible one -- to get them to think outside the box! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Being Fair with Time

James, Recommending untimed tests for one and all is a bold move -- and one that most faculty are not going to be happy with. Until they are ready to be that brave, we'll settle for providing appropriate accommodations of extended time as needed. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Equal Access

James, Ouch! It isn't your sentiment I disagree with, but your language. Unless somebody is TIED to the wheelchair, the term "wheelchair bound" is inappropriate. Try "in a wheelchair" or "a wheelchair user" instead. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Reality Check!

James, I agree with your statement -- just wish you were a little more enthusiastic about the possibilities. Things change so quickly these days, with new technology and such, that the possibility of finding a way to use their learning in a worthwhile way isn't always so far-fetched. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Physical Disability

Paul, Oh, I like that -- "If they believe they can, so should I!" I may have to steal that line. It is nice to hear someone express such optimism about student potential. Dr. Jane Jarrow