Even the Smarter Learners Need Some Time
Students with disabilities just need to know that their instructor will give them a chance to complete their work within the time frame that they are able to work in. When disable students are given this chance, their performance goes up.
Juvenal,
this is a great example of being flexible & willing to help the students be successful.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree with you, sometimes I take the next step and let the student with learning disability take the exam in a quiet room in the library.
Hi I agree with that,when they see from the very beginning that you are willing to support them they fell more confident and safe,at times we can not reconize those students with those needs but as they face the quizzes and midterm exams you recognize them and in private you discuss what they need and how you are going to help them and any frustrations from them go away
Allowing more time is based on each individual. ADD and ADHD students have higher test scores if they are not seeing movement in the room. ESL and learning disabled students are usually the same. My students are given the option to move to a quieter setting. It works!
Allowing learners to take the time to complete their work within a specific timeframe that they are able to work within helps those with challenges to understand (1) that they are appreciated; (2) that they are understood with respect to any challenge; (3) a confidence by the instructor in their ability.
Hi Carrie!
It's about showing concern and interest a students. You well know that we all feel overwhelmed because of personal challenges. So that little extra really helps.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
Ed106 Facilitator
I think the key is to know your students. Talk with them, listen to them and observe them. You will find the key needed to help all of them succeed.
I had experience with this today. A student that has some difficulty with comprehension was simply not turning in work. With a little personal contact and counseling, and the allowance for more time for completion, the student seemed to show renewed interest. He thanked me for understanding, and hurried off to complete the project.
Very rewarding to see students respond so positively!
When I administer tests in my College Math or Foundation of Math classes, I allow the students to take all the time that they need to complete the tests. Many of the adult learners need additional time simply because it has been a while since they have been in a formal educational setting and are a little "rusty" when it comes to certain basic skills. Additionally, I provide all students with a study guide. These are accommodations that are often listed in students with disabilities IEP's.
Not only do students with disabilities benefit from these strategies, all learners do!
I do think it's fair to point out that because a learner has a learning disability, doesn't make others smarter than them.
