It was interesting to learn how to facilitate learning for students with IEP. I wish I would of learned this before I started teaching many years ago. In the past I had just recommended students to get a tutor or accommodated giving them more time on assignments.
Thanks,
Jean Graham
By Eddy Mojena
I found that always extra time when taking a test helps and on assignments as well.
kerry,
this is a great way to try & solidify the learning by the students.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Daniel,
I think these are great strategies that can be a help to those students with ld & also all students.
Dr. Ryan Meers
In developing my denture lectures, I incorporate personal "hands on" experience with the lectures for best understanding of terms and techniques in the process of creating removable dentures and partial dentures.
In my practice of dentistry and now in my dental teaching experiences, the need to understand one's patients' and students' abilities and disabilities is so vital. This course gave me new avenues to approach my groups and the material I need to impart. My initial experiences were with special needs patients in the office and hospital. My total experiences in 45 years has been very rewarding.
The types of instructional support that I use for my students with learning disabilities vary widely, depending on the student(s). I have, however, become acutely aware over the last few years that it is always appreciated when I go over material thoroughly, clearly (with clear examples), slowly, and carefully. I also try not to move too fast, and I always ask if everyone understands, is up to speed, needs more help, and so on.
Diane,
I agree that often this is a very easy way to provide the help they need.
Dr. Ryan Meers
students with learning disabilities sometimes benefit from preferential seating and extended time on tests.
Most students in my experience do well if they are allowed more time to take tests and are allowed to write on the test paper. The students usually know what helps them the most and appreciate it when the instructor is supportive.
kerry,
glad that this information was helpful for you.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I work with special needs patients in dentistry, and thier learning disability often hampers thier ability to care for them selves. Happy to "learn" from this section of ED106.
James,
not that I'm aware of; I would recommend making sure other students know, just in case you are discussing something personal.
Dr. Ryan Meers
While I try to be proactive with students and any learning issues, it is imoportant to keep the communication line open. I also use some instructional material tha tis in more of an outline form, less clutter. I remind the students that it is thier responsibilty to work with me from a tutorial point of view.
What if a student wants to tape the lecture on thier own? As an instructor, that is certainly within the perview of the student. Does this breach any confidentiality rules of the classroom?
I find verbally reading tests to my students is very helpful. Most of the time the question is much clearer to them when I read it slowly and clearly for them. I do this for my students that have told me they have a learning disability as well as students that do not speak English very well.
More time.
Illustrated sample questions and answers.
Format and wording of questions and assignments.
Seat positioning in the classroom.
Leon Guendoo
Sandy ,
yes keeping those communication lines open is incredibly immportant.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I think one of the best ways an instructor can support a student who has a learning disability is positive reinforcements. Communication is another; as adult learners they already have a great idea as to what works best for them and what doesn't, but they have to communicate the ideas and it certainly doesn't hurt to ask them either.
David ,
yes, I think paraphrasing or rephrasing is a great way to help struggling students understand.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I am sure support is very important in dealing with those with learning disabilities. However, at my place of employment treating someone "differently" is not allowed. All students are considered the same as everyone else. This does make it difficult since we as instructors are not able to give any special attention to any one student. When I know a student has had issues it does help me to prepare a lecture. This may be the one way I can help, by making sure I deliver a lecture that touches on every different learning style.
