The problem is to create the environment that will allow individuals to communicate their needs and for them to come forward. When you have a large class, it takes time to find these individuals if they do not come forward.
I have not had the opportunity of knowingly having a student in class with a learning disability so I can't address the difficulties that type of student bring to the classroom.
Chunking learning so that students can learn. Study guides are nice, highlighted texts, copies of powerpoints etc. Study buddies, tutors.
One thing that is important is to let your students feel comfortable enough to share with you that they have a disability. Many don't share this and then as they fail you find out they had issues in high school.
Identify what resources the student used in the past and implement those tools into your learning environment.
I really like the idea of the mp3 players. Some people learn better orally. It is great that this has become an option. We do need to be flexible, seeing that not all of us learn the same way. With the added challenge of, maybe, greater learning disabilities, that may mean we have to be even more flexible with trying new ways and concepts to inform and critique students.
I believe, first, recognizing the problem and helping the student recognize the problem. Some of my students have obvious learning disabilities, but say they have just "slid by" all through high school. After it is recognized, provided the best instructional method for that disability is also key. And, most important support and encouragement from their instructor is the best method to help with student success.
Students with learning need more instuction and time .They can be very successful with more of your time as an instuctor.And more time to turn in work.
Making sure they have notes they need. Helping with note taking and getting them any extra help they need!
lots, of patient, incouragment, attention, extra time with the student.
most of all know what tipe of learning disability I am dealing with.
More time and perhaps a tutor on some subjects. Also, just knowing that we care and that we are there to support them makes a huge difference in their commitment to succeed.
I agree, patience, attention and persistance are the areas of struggle in most LD.
History has shown me that I need support when trying to assist a student with learning disabilities. I turn to my Student Services Director who has vast knowledge on the topic. Working with others, instead of by my self, has been the best method of help students.
When documentation is provided for such students it enables the intructor to find appropriate support
you can use recording devices, or adapt the technical terms into something they can relate to and associate when the time comes.
I was likely in need of a learning support program but instead was labeled as a over achiever, capable of many things! Today, the patience shown towards learners with different abilities usually provides the intended results!
I have several people close to me with dyslexia. Some have been treated cruelly, and others have been give the tools and patience that it helpful in their success. My sister was told that she was "slow" for many years, until she met a wonderful teacher at a community college that diagnosed her and taught her how to cope with dyslexia. She tests above average and is now an avid reader. She is an inspiration to me when dealing with students with challenges. Patience and understanding of their needs is a huge part of supporting these students.
take time to let them absorb the material and recap with them to be sure that they have understood the material
I agree Theodore!
Making ourselves available to students says I am interested in you and your learning outcomes.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
Make less assignments so they can comprehend what's being taught
Often it is helpful to give them a print out of presentations. For example, you can print out a PowerPoint presentation for them to follow along with and take notes during the lecture. This helps them because the main points are down, and they only have to add in the extra information.
Sometimes, the student will benefit from taking a test in a quiet room with extended time.
