For Students With Locomotor Disabilities

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Revision as of 21:58, 17 July 2014 by Abha Khetarpal (talk | contribs) (Educational Implications for Students with a Motor Impairment)
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Classroom Accommodations

Problems Faced

  1. Difficulty moving from one location to another
  2. Impaired writing and/or speaking due to the physical disability
  3. Inability to sit, stand, or walk for prolonged periods of time
  4. Difficulty participating in classes involving physical activity; needs special assistance in laboratory situations
  5. Difficulty in taking paper and pencil tests
  6. Requires additional time to move from class to class

Accommodations Required

General

  • Do not assume that students with motor impairments cannot participate in an activity. Always consult with the student regarding limitations.
  • Give assistance only if the student asks for it
  • Do not assume that assistance is required
  • Incorporate a means by that the student can participate in group activities
  • This may include adapting equipment or pairing the student with another student
  • Check emergency exits and routes and provide assistance as necessary
  • Check the emergency evacuation plan for your campus
  • Training on the Evacutrac is available every semester
  • Ask to switch to a ground floor room if possible

Students with Wheelchairs

  • Check for accessibility in and out of the classroom.
  • Arrange for classroom furniture such as wheelchair-height work stations, aisle widths, etc., to accommodate the student’s needs.
  • Do not hang onto or lean on a wheelchair. It is often considered to be part of the person’s "body space."
  • Push the wheelchair only if asked or if you have offered and it has been accepted

Students with Hand-Function Limitations

  • Allow a notetaker when requested
  • Accept tape recording of written assignments/exams
  • Give permission to give exams orally when necessary or allow extra time for students who are able to write but who have less speed
  • Allow students to use a scribe or computer for exams
  • Utilize competencies learned rather than speed as a grading criteria
  • Allow a tape recorder for lectures and discussions

Students with Chronic Back Problems

  • Allow students to alternate activities in sitting, standing, and walking
  • Be aware of emotional discomfort that often accompanies chronic pain