Jane Jarrow

Olin, That's true. Just keep in mind the getting the "same chance" -- equal opportunity -- does not necessarily mean getting the "same treatment". In this case, you often must do something DIFFERENT in order to get the SAME result. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Ben, Wow! I wish I had teachers like you. I applaud both your enthusiasm and determination to focus on Abilities, rather than DISabilities. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Sidney, I don't know whether it is tough love, so much as it is demonstrating your respect for their abilities by not focusing so much on their DISabilities. That would certainly be the way I would want it, were it me. Dr. Jane Jarrow

David, I couldn't agree more. I had the same experience with deaf/hard of hearing students that you did. Having them in class was a reminder to me to slow down, to clarify, to check for understanding in a way that I tended to simply ASSUME when there was no one there whom I knew might be having communication issues. It also reinforces something we remind folks of all the time. Good teaching for students with disabilities is really just good teaching. Students with disabilities may NEED that extra attention to detail, but all students profit from it. Dr. Jane Jarrow

George , You are on the right track here. In this case, the universal design elements are not the products/equipment so much as their presentation. Adjusting the height so everyone can use them, automatic sensors that trigger on demand so that it doesn't take physical effort to reach them, etc. An unusual example, to be sure, but a good one! I don't suppose I want to know where you were when you thought of this! GRIN Dr. Jane Jarrow

Joel , That's really good to hear -- that you were comfortable discussing the issues straight out with the student, and that you could encourage him to move forward with his goals. I would hope his success would be judged on the flavor of his food, not his height when serving guests at the table! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Vada, That's a good way to look at things -- that the student will share when and if it is necessary. But I think it is important to recognize that NOT sharing is not a sign that the student doesn't trust you or respect your relationship. Disability is a very private issue for lots of folks. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Vada, I certainly can't argue with that! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Vada, LOL. Are you sure? I keep thinking of the classic line (by Yoda) from Star Wars -- "There is no try. DO!" Dr. Jane Jarrow

Franz, That's what it is all about -- seeing students with disabilities as STUDENTS first, and their disability as an added feature of their participation, not their primary status. Dr. Jane Jarrow