Jane Jarrow

Ann Marie , I agree. If the student meets all the requirements and can fulfill program expectations, then whether or not he/she has a disability, and whether or not he/she MIGHT face a tough job market, those in authority should respect the student's dignity to make decisions. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Ahhh... then I am with you. I think affording students the dignity of allowing them to determine when they need assistance, rather than either assuming or forcing it on them, is definitely the way to go. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Julia, Hmmm. I applaud your faith in students with disabilities, but I want to be careful here. It almost sounds as though you are suggesting that students with disabilities should not use accommodations, because they may become overly dependent on them. I don't think that is what you meant, though. I think what you are suggesting is that accommodations for access are appropriate, but OVER-accommodating is a problem for both the student and the institution. Is that right? Dr. Jane Jarrow

Teresa, You have hit on a key factor here -- stereotyping can just as easily lead to stigmatizing. It is much better for instructors to deal with their observations, rather than to make assumptions based on a label. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Melissa, These are the kind of stories that we not only like to hear, but that are models for others (students and faculty alike). Not all students with disabilities will be as independent or as successful as your student was -- but her very visible success will set the stage for those that come behind her. People will be more willing to give the next student the benefit of the doubt because she was there before them! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Amanda, Those are the kind of stories I like to here! Dr. Jane Jarrow

Agreed, Amanda. Only those who need to know because they could or would do something different in their interactions with the student should be provided with such sensitive information. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Amanda, I agree. When individuals ask too many questions, looking for direction, or when their supervisors feel they can't be left to work independently because of concerns for safety or follow-through, it doesn't lead to happy employment prospects. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Daren, I think that is a great example... both of how someone learns to cope/manage their disability-related symptoms, and how such difficulties are an annoyance but not a barrier to success. THANKS for sharing. Dr. Jane Jarrow

Daren, Sharing information about how a student performs (the IMPACT) is very different than sharing detailed information about the diagnosis of disability. I don't think most students with disabilities are too sensitive about information shared with faculty that may help them have better access, better understanding. It is the sharing of information that doesn't serve a need, but only satisfies curiosity or "validates" the request for consideration that is touchy. Dr. Jane Jarrow