Making yourself available for time after or before class allows you to get to the specific needs of a student. You are able to break down exactly what they have missed and discuss alternative learning techniques that will benefit them.
In addition to giving the LD student the specific support he/she needs, it is also important to acknowledge their STRENGTHS! For example, I have found that frequently a student who has difficulty reading is exceptionally good at math. Pairing that student with someone who may need help in that area gives the LD student a much needed sense of worth. This also strengthens the value of a team approach; the sum is greater than all of it's parts.
When I taught high school my class populations sometimes were 30-40% students with learning disabilities. The standard accommodations of oral testing and additional time for tests were made... yet interestingly enough, a lot of times the students didn't want these. I guess they just didn't want to be considered different.
Because they had to learn how to cope in a world that may not have accommodations for them, many of these students had amazing study and note-taking habits. I learned a lot from them.
I often used guided reading/viewing packets so that they would know what concepts to look for as we read. I ended up using this with everyone in the class because it really helped focus all the students. I'm a fairly creative person and love creative projects, but everytime I designed a project that would help students with learning disabilities, these projects also ended up being utilized for the whole class.
I think guided reading, point by point writing prompts and creative projects that allow students to express their understanding in unique ways are excellent--but not just for students with learning disabilities, they seem to motivate and inspire all the students.
I have to agree Andre!
The first step is in determining the student's learning challenges then to address those in the best way possible for each student. Repetition is certainly one of the ways to help students. What other stratgies have you used with challenged learners?
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
Some strategies that have worked for me: close proximity to teacher, longer time to complete an assignment, blocking off information on handouts, giving handouts of topics covered in class, paring students with a partner, etc.
Patience, patience, patience and repetition. Students with disabilities need more than just repetition its also about finding what type of learner the student is, once this is found then repetition and patience is the way to go
First you have to be patience, then try to know your student a little bit and find out the best way to get the informayion a cross.
The most successful method I use to help students with learning disabilities is the use of flash cards. I've found that flash cards work well in different situations and for different students. Following the same principle as "repeat, repeat, repeat", but allowing the student to test his or herself whenever they feel they need extra practice is very helpful.
Good Sue! I like the idea of using a recorder for those auditory learners. When I use PowerPoints, I will add sound where I want students to place emphasis.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
I have heard a little about color helping. Which colors are better than others?
I have had students who are auditory learners. They have difficulty reading material and comprehending it. What I have suggested is that they tape-record the lectures so they can hear the words and follow along with the class handouts. I have also been told by several of these students that putting class notes (powerpoints, etc) on color paper helps with learning.
Great strategy Kelvin!
Repetition and reenforcement is an excellent approach for all students. Slowing the pace, modifying your delivery and assisting students where possible are some of the best options when you have a number of other students to work with as well.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
