Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Ashley, In truth, it is more logical to determine the severity of disability on the basis of IMPACT than on the basis of the damage to the system. I have known some folks with severe learning disabilities who are much more limited in their ability to function like everyone else than is someone in a wheelchair who is just like everybody else -- sitting down! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Rock and a Hard Place?

Marsha, I am inclined to agree. I think schools should have a "resident expert" on disability who can help to determine what kind of accommodation is appropriate and can facilitate that access for the student and the institution. Just keep in mind, though, that such an individual simply determines the accommodations. Carrying out the practical aspects of providing equal access is EVERYONE's responsibility. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Leveling The Playing Field

Linda, That's a tough one, Linda. There is a LEGAL definition of disability (given in 504 and restated in the ADA) that would have gotten the student accommodations for the state board exam but you are right -- he can't get that without formal diagnosis. Perhaps the next time you find a similar situation, while you are helping the student by giving the appropriate support for his classes with you, you can also help explore community resources that can provide the formal diagnostic statements needed for others. First stop would be the nearest college with a Psych clinic (where students-in-training… >>>

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Learning Disability

Jennifer, Spell check, too, is a form of universal design. Built in to the standard word-processing software is something that will allow individuals with significant disabilities in this area to produce a final product that looks just like that of others without their difficulties. Isn't modern technology grand? GRIN Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Universal Design Hits Home

Marsha, Great examples here -- especially the audible traffic lights (which most folks don't think about as a form of universal design), and the iPad. And you are right -- all of the IOS devices (iPad, iPod, iPhone) are equipped with built in accessibility technology. Check out the Voiceover app, under "accessibility" in your Settings. What will they think of next? GRIN Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Equal Access

Amy, The trick to all this is recognizing that, not only can we not know what someone may be capable of, we don't know how he/she will USE what they learn and what they can make of their education, so we have to be willing to let them try. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Equal Access

That's the key, Marsha. Not that anyone can do anything, but that anyone should have the chance to consider anything! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

After the Classroom

Marsha, Yes -- employers are required to assure access and to make appropriate accommodations, but only if they have been informed that the individual IS someone with a disability, and asked for help in making reasonable adjustments. You are right. The failure to self-identify is often the downfall of those with ADHD. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

Attention Deficit Disorder

Earline, There are a couple of misconceptions here. First, you suggest that the student has been "tested" for ADHD, rather than assessed. Tested suggests a kind of exactness that just doesn't exist here (as shown by your suggestion that the doctor has concluded the "specificity of medications"). This is not an exact science.. There are no scientific tests (like a blood test) that will tell us specifically what dose of medication will correct the difficulty. Indeed, with ADHD, the meds aren't meant to fix (cure) the problem, only to help control the symptoms. More, there is no way to tell… >>>

Jane Jarrow

Discussion Comment

After the Classroom

Laura, I think that' the key -- concentrate on the ABILITIES, rather than the DISabilities! Dr. Jane Jarrow