Instructor Responsibilities
As an educator it is our responsibility to give each student the support and tools needed for them to succeed. With a well planned modified study guide the student will be able to reach his or her goals for success.
I really appreciate your response here. It allows me to be accepting of being honest as well as demonstrates the importance in having heart-to-hearts with students.
Barbara,
I think this is an excellent choice as you are being open & honest with them, while providing them the freedom to make the decision for themselves.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I'm all for encouraging and working with the student who has disabilities to help him/her to achieve success in their academic or vocational endeavors. But, I too have wrestled with the "what ifs"-- what if this isn't enough and the student is not competent to succeed in the career field of their choice? I understand that retention is important , but at what price?
I have actually had to have the discussion with 2 students that although they wanted to be in a certain field, they needed to develop or become competent to be employable in that field, In a nutshell, it boiled down to letting the students know that I supported their motivation, but I also wanted them to be realistic and that it was up to them to evaluate it and take appropriate actions to either move in a different direction or take more time to develop the skills they needed to move forward.
I agree with your Dr. Meers. But there are retention rates to maintain etc. It amazes me what for-profit institutions will allow.
Jackie,
I would say if you've built a good relationship with the student, you might want to sit down & discuss this potential challenge with them. Helping them see the challenges that are there & putting it into the perspective of the investment of their education. Then it really is up to them if they take heed to your advice or not.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Jackie,
I would say if you've built a good relationship with the student, you might want to sit down & discuss this potential challenge with them. Helping them see the challenges that are there & putting it into the perspective of the investment of their education. Then it really is up to them if they take heed to your advice or not.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree that we as the instructor of the course must provide support to all of our students learning needs. But where is the line drawn from an academic to a vocational experience? I wrestle with the knowledge of the industry that a particular student will not achieve their career goals due to their learning disabilities. I have a hard time with seeing this student pay for an expensive tuition, yet they are not employable in the field they said they wanted to pursue.
This was the first time I taught students with learning disabilities. Both of the students were forthcoming with their disability and how I could help them. It was very interesting. They were able to be very successful in the program.
Kim,
great comment. We must be vigilant observers of all of our students & help them advocate for themselves when needed.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
It is also our responsibility to observe and be mindful of these students needs if we regognize there is a learning disability, becuase all students will not make anyone aware.
Joyce,
and the more we can show these students that we want to help them be successful, the more likely they will be to seek our help.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
