Shaine,
I suppose that just goes to prove that different TYPES of intelligence may be demonstrated by folks, and we only just have to look for ways to employ those alternative skills to allow someone to experience great success.
Dr. Jane Jarrow
I don't have a specific story about a student, but I did know a gentlemen that had autism and he could tell you distance from where you were standing to your hometown, football scores from 20 years ago, and just many other things like that. It is amazing that people that are considered to have a disability are in some cases was more intelligent than any of us could ever hope to be.
Deana,
That's an interesting idea, and it fits nicely with my personal philosophy of leading by example. I think recognizing one's own achievements, and being willing to share how they came about, can often help to inspire others to try.
Dr. Jane Jarrow
Sharon ,
That's always the payoff... when somewhere who LOOKS limited in their potential demonstrates abilities beyond that expected. It is a reminder that jumping to conclusions rarely leads to happy landings! GRIN
Dr. Jane Jarrow
if we look at ourselves as a success story it may be easier to help find the path for others to follow to there success.
Although it was not brought to my attention, it was obvious that one of the students in my class was unique. As it is described in this module, his social interactions, communication skills, and restrictive interests had a tremendous impact on his social interaction. I was very concerned, at first, about his ability to be successful in this class, which would require interaction with fellow students and the incorporation of a variety subject that were outside of what seemed to be his comfort level (government and politics). To my delight, his academic performance was outstanding, and even more impressive was the rapport that developed between this student and his fellow classmates as the semester progressed!
Adrianna,
Sometimes, students who are missing information or cues because of disability must fill in those blanks by asking more questions and (in many cases) for better explanations. Sounds like the problem was with the teachers, not the student.
Dr. Jane Jarrow
I taught a bright young lady who had a relatively severe visual impairment similar to "tunnel vision". Although she requested very few accommodations, several of the teachers found her to be irritating. They thought that she asked too many questions and required too much time before and after class. As I got to know the young lady, I found her to be extremely intelligent and goal-oriented. She continued to hold her head high, and to complete the program.
James,
It is certainly impressive when students with disabilities are able to harness the power of new technology to allow them to achieve (and excel!) in fields that have traditionally been thought unavailable to someone with such limitations.
Dr. Jane Jarrow
My sucess story to help dispel some of the stereotypes we all carry is I know a friend who was visually impaired earned graduated with an Associate's Degree in Computer Networking Specialist from Columbus Technical College in December 2009. In addition, she was also a member of the National Technical Honor Society, which was also a member of while I was at columbus Technical College.
Brent,
This is the kind of daunting history we hear more often these days because of the number of "wounded warriors" -- disabled vets who are trying to reenter the mainstream and meet with daunting circumstances. I have nothing to offer except the hope that if I asked you the same question (about a positive example) in another year, you may have had an experience with a student that gives you more hope!
Dr. Jane Jarrow
Sorry to rain on the parade but I am going to focus on one who has not yet made it...yet. Taught him in recent past, the results of a childhood car accident let him with a crippled arm and a slight leg hobble. To this day, he has been turned down for numerous job offers, and has become very bitter. Even I tried to help him and when my lead did not work out he turned on me. He has a girlfriend, child and swears he is leaving the area upon graduation. The positives I see if his determination to get his degree, but I am concerend with the amount of hate he carries when he feels he does not earn job opportunities due to his disability. A fresh start may help in his circumstances, but he will need to also clean the slate of past letdowns.
Erin,
Those kind of stories remind us that disability is a part of life -- not the end of it! ;-)
Dr. Jane Jarrow
I am new to my campus, so I don't have a story regarding my current position
But I have a friend who had a severe spinal cord injury after she was accepted into college on a soccer scholarship. Though she had to take some time off to become independent again and learn how to use a wheelchair and such, she went back to college and now is a successful business woman. No one ever thought she'd be working in one of the top business offices in Boston.
Butch,
Your welcome. I gather that means you have figured out the problem and made it through. Congratulations!
Dr. Jane Jarrow
Thank you so much and thank you for your help in the course.
Butch,
Those are great stories to hear and great memories to remind you, as an instructor, that all students have potential.
Dr. Jane Jarrow
William,
I love hearing those kind of stories -- the ones that make others think twice about limits. I had a friend who used to give a talk called, "Of Blind Mechanics and Hemophiliac Industrial Arts Teachers I Have Known." He said that, in truth, he had only known one of each, but it was enough to teach him not to make assumptions.
Dr. Jane Jarrow
I had a recovering drug addict who had was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD. He did poorly in high school. I spent time with him after each class, encouraging him. He passed my class with an A and stays in contact with me to this day.
Though he wasn't my student, we had a blind osteopathic physician in my town who carried on an active practice for decades. It was a little spooky walking into his dimly lit office, but he inspired many others to go for the gold.
