|
(Author Unknown). (1998). Mathematics and
dyslexia. Perspectives, Fall 1998. [Reprinted on the Internet at: www.ldonline.org/ld_indepth/math_skills/ida_math_fall98.html]
This
article describes the variety of difficulties that students with dyslexia
may have in mathematics. Some students may
have trouble primarily with conceptual knowledge, others may have problems
primarily with procedural knowledge and executing calculations, and
still others may have no problems with math because of dyslexia.
The article
explains how dyslexic students' difficulty with written language interferes
with mathematics. These students may have trouble understanding mathematical
vocabulary. Word problems are difficult because of the reading involved.
The authors note that, in order to teach most effectively, instructors
must realize the language inherent in mathematics, and the important
role that it plays in linking conceptual and procedural knowledge,
a link which
is the foundation of mathematical understanding. The article stresses
the importance of using a multisensory approach to teaching mathematics
to
dyslexic students, using concrete manipulatives and pictoral representations
to teach abstract concepts.
Academy for Educational Development (1995). Screening
for adults with learning disabilities: The role of the practitioner
in the assessment process. [ERIC Document Reproduction
Service No. ED387988]
This is a guide for those who work in literacy
programs
to assist in identification of struggling students who may be learning
disabled. The
authors present details that could assist practitioners when performing
informal assessments in an effort to plan instruction. It
gives tips on screening for vision/hearing and/or auditory/visual
processing
problems, academic performance,
and behaviors/psychological manifestations. This article
is helpful for those working in literacy programs or any other
type
of learning
situation. This
article enforces that early detection is important to ensure success
for these students.
Bardine, B. (1997). Working
with learning disabled writers: some perspectives. Kent
State University OH, Ohio Literacy Resource Center, March 1997.
[ERIC Reproduction
Service No. ED 406 554]
The author discusses methods that help
students with learning disabilities become better writers.
He begins by explaining characteristics
of
students with LD. Some of things mentioned are: difficulties
following oral directions, keeping up with group conversations,
handwriting, and/or reading
and spelling problems. Then whole language philosophy
to learning is discussed, this basically states that language skills
should be taught
together to enable students to learn them more effectively. The
author asserts that the whole language classroom benefits an LD
writer in many
ways. One in particular is that there is more time spent
on witting. Another
helpful method for LD writers addresses what is called the landmark
method. This
method explores the inter-relatedness of reading, writing, speaking,
and listening. For example, the students talk aloud as they
write. This
is good for LD students because it emphasizes metacogonition
and it enables the students to eventually talk like they write.
Then
in conclusion the author makes connections between the two types
of methods presented. This
article is useful as it lends itself to two popular methods and
gives a relationship as to how these are useful for LD students
in higher education.
Barr, A., Donahue, W., Podrid, A., Seeling,
S. (1987). Successful college tutoring: focusing
on the learning disabled student in the learning center. Long
Island University, Brooklyn, N.Y., April 1987.
This is a guide to
help those who tutor students with learning disabilities. It
provides strategies and techniques to help tutors provide better
service to these students. It begins by giving a detailed definition
of learning
disabilities. The authors then talk about characteristics of
LD college students. In this description there is a list of typical
strengths,
reading skills, written language skills, listening and speaking
skills, mathematical skills, organization skills, study skills,
and social skills. Following
that are suggestions for tutoring reading. There is a brief
introduction
that discusses ways to help tutors understand their students
needs in reading. It suggests giving an informal reading inventory
to
get an idea of where they
are in their reading. Getting to know the students reading
ability lends itself to effective tutoring. After that is an
outline of
four major categories that tutors should teach their students.
It includes
reading flexibility, comprehension, vocabulary development,
and strategy application. The next section outlines suggestions
for
tutoring writing. They
begin with offering tips followed by a detailed outline, which
can be used to help the student. This outline includes techniques
to generate
ideas (prewriting), enrich vocabulary, further advance writing
organization skills, and improve proofreading. This outline
also includes a final
section on how computers can be used to teach writing. Finally
the authors offer suggestions for tutoring study skills. Basically,
this
is an outline of things to consider when helping students with
special needs strengthen their skills. The appendix includes
college study
skills checklist and a tutor log.
Bowe, F.G. (2000). Universal
Design in Education - Teaching Nontraditional Students. Westport,
CT: Bergin & Garvey.
This handbook introduces universal instructional
design in education in various educational settings (from kindergarten
through university
programs, adult
and continuing education). Discussed is how to meet the needs
of a diverse student body including (but not limited to) non European-American/Judeo-Christian
Western "white" cultures, non-traditional students, and
students with disabilities. This book helps educators reevaluate
who should be responsible for accessibility and assistive technology
and emphasizes
the fact that universal design gives all students the opportunity
to be successful. The author suggests that readers not read
the book front to back, but rather use it for reference material. When
reading this book, as suggested, readers should spend the most
time on chapters 1-3
to become familiar with the book, the principle of universal design,
and how it can be applied to the classroom. Then chapters
4-7 should be used to reference as problems or questions arise
throughout the academic
year. Chapter 8 discusses web designs and technology. Then
chapter 9 synthesizes all the information in the book. In
summary: CHAPTER 1 talks about diverse student bodies. It
is essentially broken down into four sections: people with disabilities,
members of ethnic/racial
minority cultures, different learning styles, and people for whom
traditional approaches are inconvenient. The "people with
disabilities" section
gives a brief overview of various disabilities such as learning
disabilities, ADD/ADHD, hearing loss, blindness and low vision,
and physical disabilities. The
section on "members of ethnic/racial minority cultures" helps instructors
understand that their values and views may differ from those of
other backgrounds and that in order to help meet these students' needs
instructors must be understanding and have a broader view of different
cultures besides their
own. The section on "different learning styles" discusses
how instructors must understand that students learn in different
ways and that these various
ways are what makes any particular student successful. Also
within the chapter there is a section that discusses the different
types of people
for whom traditional approaches are inconvenient. In summary,
it is about how traditional college schedules and methods could
cause some
students difficulties. CHAPTER 2 provides information on
the seven principles of universal design. It begins by giving
a short introduction and some definitions. Then it introduces
the seven principles: equitable use, flexibility in use, simple
and intuitive use, perceptible information,
tolerance for error, low physical effort, and size and space for
approach and use. Each area gives a definition of the concept
and the basic guidelines. Following in CHAPTER 3 the author
talks about universally designed education in PreK-12, colleges/universities,
and continuing/adult
education. It goes into the very basics of current universal
design concepts that are standard in these various situations. Then
the seven principles introduced in the last chapter are applied
to education. As
mentioned earlier, CHAPTERS 4-7 further break down and outline
the seven principles. These principles can be referred to
as problems arise in the classroom. CHAPTER 8 is about web
site accessibility. This
chapter gives tips to teachers on how to make their website more
accessible. Then
there is a section on how to use other people's web sites with
the intent to make them accessible for specific needs. Then
concluding the book is a summary and two appendixes titled "Instructional
Media" and "Resources". This
book is very user friendly and gives valuable information that
teachers can use.
Brochtrup, M. & Kelley, C. (1995). Strategies
in math for college students. Latest Developments, Fall 1995,
4-6.
The authors discuss that despite the fact
that most learning impaired students are not prepared for mathematics
at the college level, most are still required to complete quantitative
math courses. When these students seek help for math from disability specialist
it usually does not help because these specialists are not trained in various
math components. One way to help these students is for educators to have
an understanding of the needs of students with disabilities. This article
addresses the difficulties that college students with learning disabilities
experience in math and suggests methods for educators. The authors list
topics that most of these students have as concerns and then list assumptions
about teaching these students, that when clarified, can make students more
successful. The authors talk about how students start higher-level mathematics
without a strong foundation from their lower level courses, and that without
a good foundation teaching will be difficult. When instructing these students
it is important to understand this and to know that their instruction must
be based on different delivery methods. The authors mention that once
students and instructors learn what works best in an educational setting
then the list of ideas presented can help them. They list ideas for auditory
strategies, visual strategies, and kinesthetic strategies. They then conclude
that educators can assist students, and provide a more positive learning
environment, by helping them approach math in an organized way and by using
the suggested teaching methods. This article is very helpful
to instructors and students who have been through CTAD training
because it provides
a comprehensive list of strategies can help all be successful
in math.
Chang, M.K., Richards, S.J., & Jackson
A. (1996). Accommodating students with disabilities: A practical guide
for faculty. [ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED 404827]
This document is a handbook of accommodation
strategies, practices and resources. It is useful for those who
want concrete information about the needs of students with visual,
hearing,
physical
or learning disabilities. The authors provide a description of
these four disability groups and the major problems posed by each
type
of disability. Very specific technical and non-technical accommodations
relevant to
these
disability groups are presented. A 5 step procedure for making
accommodation decisions is suggested and a case scenario is provided
which illustrates
implementation of the steps. The document concludes with resources
and organizations related to accommodating disabled students.
Frauenheim, J.G., & Hecheri, J.R. (1983). A longitudinal
study of psychological and achievement test performance in severe dyslexic
adults. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 16(6).
The focus of the report is how dyslexia
affects psychological and educational test performance of adults
who were diagnosed dyslexic as children. Participants who took part in this
extensive study included eleven subjects who experienced academic difficulties
from their early schoolings. The authors saw each of the subjects
individually for psychological and educational testing, as well as an interview. The
areas of this report include psychological testing, achievement testing,
reading, spelling, and arithmetic. The results of these tests showed
that the dyslexic adults had pronounced reading and spelling deficits. There
were also patterns of skill weakness as shown by the psychological and
academic tests. The authors suggest that life long intervention
efforts are a way to combat difficulties faced by people with dyslexia.
Freed, B.F. (1987). Exemptions from the foreign language requirement:
A review of recent literature, problems, and policy. ADFL Bulletin,
18(2), 13-17.
This is a discussion paper that focuses
on the information presented at both the University of Pennsylvania
colloquium and the Modern Language Association pertaining to
exemptions from foreign
language requirements for students with learning disabilities. The
issues focus on policy and procedures adopted by the University of
Pennsylvania. These policies and procedures can be considered
when analyzing any major university
with a diverse student body. During the presentations several issues
were brought up. One topic discussed the definition of a learning
disability which included several characteristics that instructors
should be aware of when trying to refer a student. There was
no agreement
on how the learning disabled should be diagnosed and if there should
be special exemptions for students diagnosed. There was the
realization
that there is a need for special courses, accommodations, or remedial
techniques for learning disabled students. The author then
lists the University's
new policy derived from the information presented at the colloquium
and from informal surveys of other institutions. This policy
and procedure
can be helpful for faculty and staff in making decisions whether or
not to exempt students with disabilities from foreign language
program requirements.
Ganschow, L., Sparks, R.L., Javorsky, J., Pohlman, J., & Bishop-Marbury,
A. (1991). Identifying native language difficulties among foreign
language learners in college: a "foreign" language learning disability? Journal
of Learning Disabilities, 4(9), 530-541.
There are a large number of universities
and colleges that have policies regarding students with learning disabilities
who many have difficulties fulfilling foreign language requirements.
Suggestions are made that those who have foreign language difficulties
also have native
language difficulties. This study examines the differences between
successful and non-successful college foreign language learners on
tests of intelligence, foreign language aptitude, oral and
written language,
and mathematics. The authors take a close look at variables that
have previously been thought to contribute to success or failure in
foreign language classes. The elements of the study included
thirty
juniors and seniors from different Midwestern universities - half were
successful foreign learners and half were not. They were tested in
the domains of intelligence, foreign language aptitude, phonology,
grammar and syntax, semantics, and mathematics. The results the this
research
show that students who have foreign language learning difficulties
are not less intelligent, are weak in phonological and syntactic (grammatical
areas), and have reading comprehensions skills that are comparable
to successful
foreign language learners. The authors suggest that phonological
and syntactic difficulties in native language lead to problems in learning
a foreign language. Research should be further examined as to whether
phonological and/or syntactic training should be provided for adults
with learning disabilities and the possibility of these students studying
languages
that rely on orthographic systems (such as Chinese) as a solid alternative.
Gerber, P.J, & Reiff, H.B. (1994). Learning Disabilities
in Adulthood: Persisting Problems and Evolving Issues. Stoneham,
MA: Butterworth-Hinemann.
This book addresses issues that are of concern for adults
with disabilities and other interested parties. Various authors
addressing a wide range
of educational issues contributed to the book's content. Chapters nine
through fifteen focus on education, and since they are more relevant to CTAD
than other chapters in the book, they will be summarized here. Chapter
nine, entitled "Transition of youths with learning disabilities: The secondary
education foundation", describes transition policy and legislation affecting
secondary education programs and transition planning for youths with learning
disabilities. The author offers a step-by-step process
that includes case study examples. Chapter ten continues the education
process by addressing post-secondary and vocational training. This
chapter titled, "Post-secondary education and vocation training: Keys to
success for adults with learning disabilities" by E.H. Minskoff, begins by
defining learning disabilities, and proceeds by giving more detail on factors
related to success, family support, socioeconomic status, and post-secondary
educational and vocational training. The issue of literacy- another
factor that affects adults with learning disabilities- is the focal concern
of chapter eleven, "Adult literacy and learning disabilities" by C.W. Anderson. The
author examines literacy by using statistics and other types of supporting
information. "Services for students with learning disabilities in the
community colleges" by D.F. Mellard, is the topic for chapter twelve. The
overall environment for students with learning disabilities is the focus
for this chapter. Many characteristics of community colleges, which
may be of special concern for the learning disabled, are addressed. In
chapter thirteen titled, "College and university programming", the authors
discuss services for students with disabilities, admissions, eligibility,
and accommodations. "Assistive technology for adults with learning
disabilities: A rational for use" is the title of chapter fourteen. This
author, M.H. Raskind, gives an overview of assistive technology and technological
matters for persons who want to learn more about learning disabilities
and education.
Gregg, N. (1983). College learning
disabled writer: Error patterns and instructional alternatives. Journal
of Learning Disabilities, 16(6), 334-338.
The author offers error patterns common for learning disabled writers and instructional
alternatives for educators. A section on error analysis describes
error patterns in learning disabled writers, basic writers, and normal
writers. This information is supported by research done by the author. Then
two instructional alternatives are mentioned: guided composition and sentence
combining. This article gives some useful information for those who
work with a diverse group of learners because it gives a good overview
of error patterns that instructors may confront.
Hodge, B.M. & Preston-Sabin, J. (1997). Accommodations--or
just good teaching? Westport, CT: Praeger Publishers.
This book provides a comprehensive look
at incorporating good teaching practices in higher education and how
these practices will serve students with disabilities. There
is a detailed legislative
history of issues surrounding disability and higher education, as well
as information on faculty rights and responsibilities. The authors
supply a useful distinction between treatment (which refers to
applying some remedy
to the disability) and accommodation (an adaptation designed to help
the students display their knowledge). They point out that unlike
K-12 schools,
which must both treat and accommodate students, universities
are only required to accommodate. This distinction may help to reduce
fear
for some instructors.
As the title indicates, the book argues
that providing reasonable accommodations to students with disabilities
is part of good teaching practice, and that good teaching practice enhances
learning for all students. The book contains separate chapters on teaching
students with a variety of disabilities. Each chapter explores a particular
kind of disability (such as "Attention, concentration, or memory difficulties")
and includes a definition and a useful list of questions a professor can
consider or discuss with a student. Descriptive scenarios narrating the
experiences of specific students, their disabilities, and accommodation
processes could go a long way towards helping faculty understand the nature
of specific disabilities, provide accommodation, and think critically about
their own teaching practices.
Hodge, B. & Sabin-Preston, J. (1994). Your
teaching experience and students with disabilities. NADE 18th Conference
Proceedings, 16-17.
This article presents some findings obtained
from a research project identified as, "Teaching Strategies and Accommodations
for Students with Disabilities". It addresses issues to help teachers
who have little experience teaching students with special needs to be more
productive in the classroom. The objective of this study is to identify
teaching strategies and/or accommodations for students with disabilities
through essays written by teachers and then later gather this information
for classroom teachers to use as a future reference.
Hughes, C.A., & Suritsky, S.K. (1993).
Notetaking skills and strategies for students with learning disabilities. Preventing
School Failure, 38(1), 7-11.
The authors describe the skills involved
in note-taking, which of these skills pose special difficulty for learning
disabled students, and instructor practices that can help compensate for
these skill deficiencies. Two prior studies examining learning disabled
students' note-taking skills and strategies are discussed. One of these
studies made a comparison between students with and without a learning
disability, and the other involved interviews with learning disabled students
only.
In the qualitative interview study, learning
disabled students indicated that they have difficulty writing fast enough,
identifying important lecture points, and understanding their notes after
lecture. Results from the comparative study indicated that learning disabled
students tend to make less abbreviations in their notes, and record fewer
key points and less information in general.
The authors discuss both accommodating
and skill building approaches to help learning disabled students with
note taking difficulties. The authors argue against a strictly "accommodating" approach
which removes the requirement that a student takes notes. In support
of this argument, research is cited regarding the positive impact that
taking
notes has on memory. The authors suggest some things instructors can
do to help relieve some of the difficulty that learning disabled students
have taking notes: Accommodations such as providing lecture outlines,
clearly
emphasizing key points, and modifying the lecture pace are very helpful.
Specific techniques for teaching note taking skills and strategies
are also presented.
This article could be helpful for faculty
since it clearly delineates the component skills involved in note taking-
skills which instructors may take for granted-, how LD students may have
difficulty with these component skills, and what specifically faculty can
do to help.
Jay, C. & Blackerby, C. ( 2000). Hope
Is Not a Method: How Instructional Strategies and Technologies for the
Learning Disabled Can Benefit Traditional Learners. North Harris
Montgomery Community Coll. District, Houston TX. (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED 416919)
Distance learning educators may utilize techniques formerly designed
for students with learning disabilities (LD) to enrich the experience
of distance
education students. Both LD and distance learners suffer from "learned
helplessness" an inability to set realistic goals and a limited
perception of the rewards of education. These problems, coupled with
the transactional
distance felt by learners in distance education, create a need for new
teaching strategies that benefit both LD and distance learners. Faculty
must
become more aware of how to utilize technology to improve student-learning
experience and realistically plan courses that include more hands-on
activities. Instructors should also create conditions where students
have equal access
to technology that is not too difficult to operate. In addition, multimedia
resources must be integrated into the course and evaluated to address
the needs of both LD and distance education students. Colleges should
no
longer assume that only students with learning disabilities benefit from
adaptive technology applications. New technologies and teaching strategies
initially designed for the learning disabled may also have a positive
impact on the learning experience of both traditional and nontraditional
students.
Jarvis, K. (1997). Leveling the Playing Field: A Comparison of
Scores of College Students with and without Learning Disabilities on Classroom
Tests. (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED 415261)
A study was conducted to determine if providing additional time to complete
classroom tests increases the test scores of college students with learning
disabilities. Whether the accommodation allows the extra time
necessary for students with learning disabilities to process the information,
leveling the playing field, or whether it creates a comparative disadvantage
for students without learning disabilities was explored with learning disabled
and non-learning disabled students, all enrolled in 6 classes at a private
college. Four nonstandardized multiple choice tests were administered to
all participants over a semester. The first two tests were given without
any accommodation, while the third and fourth tests were given with additional
time for all students. Providing extended time on the test benefited all
students, but this accommodation specifically contributed to an increase
in scores for learning-disabled students, to the extent that their scores
increased to the level of nondisabled students who were tested routinely.
This accommodation did level the playing field for the learning disabled.
Issues for further research include those of self- selection of accommodation
by students, kind of learning disability, and type of test.
Jones, G.C., Kalivoda, K.S., & Higbee,
J.L. (1997). College students with Attention Deficit Disorder. NASPA
Journal, 34, 262-274.
The authors argue that because the population
of college students with ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention
Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) continues to increase, faculty, administrators,
and support staff must better understand the definition and diagnosis of
ADD, as well as relevant academic accommodations and modifications. According
to the authors, new college students with ADD frequently find themselves
overwhelmed by their new responsibilities. They list specific DSM-IV criteria
that may help some faculty better understand the condition and its diagnosis
and treatment. The authors offer seven specific suggestions for faculty
who have students with ADD, such as communicating both orally and via syllabus
a willingness to work with students with disabilities, coordinating with
the college's disability services provider, and helping students identify
critical areas of study in the course.
Kalivoda, K.S., Higbee, J. L., & Brenner,
D.C. (1997). Teaching students with hearing impairments. Journal of
Developmental Education, 20(3), 10-16.
The authors discuss needs and concerns specific
to deaf/hard-of-hearing students with the goal that educators use this
information to better accommodate such students. Barriers posed to deaf
students by the hearing world's oral communication system are discussed,
as well as devices and strategies they might use to circumvent such barriers.
The differences between American Sign Language (ASL) and written English
are discussed, and the impact these differences have on deaf students'
writing products and standardized test scores. The authors make suggestions
for what faculty can do in the classroom to better accommodate deaf/hard-of-hearing
students. Specific accommodations and strategies regarding oral and written
communication are discussed.
This article provides an illuminating portrait
of the difficulties faced by deaf students in a sound-based world. Especially
noteworthy is the comparison between ASL and written English, and the unique
properties of ASL that may cause deaf students to write in ways that may
be misinterpreted by instructors.
Longo, J.A. (1988). The learning disabled:
Challenge to postsecondary institutions. Journal of Developmental
Education, 11(3), 10-14.
With the rising number of non-traditional students entering colleges and universities,
campuses are becoming more diversified. This author discusses some
of the challenges that postsecondary institutions must face when accommodating
the increasing number of LD students. This article begins with a
brief definition of learning disabilities and basic information about this
population. Then problems of identification and accommodation are
also mentioned. Examples such as faculty awareness and understanding
of disability and student disclosure are amongst the few that are described. Approaches
toward modifying instructional practices along with solutions to addressing
the needs of the learning disabled are offered. Also discussed briefly
is the issue of college selection for students with learning disabilities. This
article offers concrete solutions to some of the major dilemmas that postsecondary
institutions confront with accommodating the learning disabled college
student. These recommendations could serve to be beneficial for LD
students and those who serve them.
Martin, J.L. (1991). Removing the stumbling blocks: 25 ways to help our
learning disabled college writers. Teaching English in the Two-Year
College, 18, 283-289.
Many students with learning disabilities do not get recognized because a
great number of teaching faculty in university settings do not know what
to do to assist them or just assume that they have problems with basic writing. This
causes a great disadvantage for them. It is important for faculty to
be current on research regarding teaching and learning because of the changing
freshman population. The author gives a simple definition of learning
disabilities and offers a guide to help understand this disability. Then
a 25 point list of suggestions are offered that faculty can use to help these
students be successful. The list includes items that are categorized
in six areas: lectures and directions, assignments, class discussions and
activities, response and grading, tests and in-class writings, and some general
tips. This is an informative review of some topics for those who work
with a diverse group of students.
Murphy, D.M. & Murphy, J.T. (1997). Enabling
disabled students. Thought & Action, 13(1), 41-52.
This article addresses how it is important
for instructors to be aware of the increasing number of students with
disabilities that are enrolled in higher education institutions
and the need for them
to be prepared to accommodate these students in their instruction. It
goes on to discuss the legal issues involved with accessibility rights
for these students and the need for these rights to be known by teaching
faculty. The issue of state and local government to adequately fund
and administer programs so that resources can be available for individuals
with disabilities must be dealt with in a proactive manner. The responsibility
for the institutions is to insure that these students receive an opportunity
to obtain an education by amending standards and rules and by providing
programs and services. Beyond that, instructors must understand how
to accommodate these students. The author further lists many misconceptions
that instructors may have about students with disabilities. Then they
offer a solution: faculty training and development programs that address
topics that specifically deal with people with disabilities. The authors
give a detailed explanation of various disabilities, which include,
learning disabilities, mobility impairments, visual impairments, and
hearing impairments. In
addition to that they give suggestions on how to adapt lessons to assure
that these students learn. This article is very helpful for instructors
because it offers detailed explanations and gives tips on how to teach
students with disabilities insuring that everyone experiences a positive
learning environment.
O'Hearn, C. (1989). Recognizing the learning disabled college writer. College
English, 51(3), 294-304.
Many learning disabled students have difficulties in writing composition,
so the author offers suggestions that college faculty should consider
when assessing students' writing to determine a learning disability
or inexperience in writing. The author explains typical errors that
the learning disabled
may make in spelling, punctuation and capitalization. Then examined
is how a total percentage of errors in student work is also an important
factor in making a preliminary diagnosis. This article can be
a good resource tool for composition instructors.
Orkwis, R., & McLane, K. (1998). A
curriculum every student can use: Design principles for student access.
ERIC/OSEP Topical Brief. [Eric Document Reproduction Service No. ED 423
654] [Internet: www.cec.sped.org/osep/udesign.htm]
This report is one of the first in the dissemination
efforts for a project designed to examine how universal design principles
can be used to modify instructional materials and procedures so that
all students have equal access to the curriculum. This report introduces
the
concept of universal design as applied to curriculum design and demonstrates
how digital technology is a very promising medium for establishing
universally accessible instructional materials. The authors define
equal access as
it applies to curriculum, and briefly discuss relevant legislative
mandates. They discuss the origin of universal design for physical
spaces, how these
principles generalize to learning spaces, and the qualitative similarities
and differences of universal design principle application in each sphere.
Whether designing physical spaces, curricula or learning materials,
the bottom line is that "accommodations are built in rather than added
as an afterthought". Universal design for the curriculum should
result in diversity and flexibility, not the uniformity which is often
the goal
for universal design of physical spaces.
Parr, P., Levi, N. & Jacka, K. (1996). Unspeeded
examinations: An equitable and practical method of assessment. (ERIC
Document Reproduction Service No. ED397108).
Granting extended time for students with
disabilities to take examinations is a controversial issue; it is vital
for these students because it can be the difference between passing
or failing the course. The purpose for this investigation posed by the authors
is to differentiate the valid concerns from the invalid concerns that instructors
may have about unspeeded examinations. They reviewed literature by many
prominent authors that address the issue of unspeeded test and how they
change test performance in a positive way. The literature also provided
evidence that in order for testing to be fair for students with disabilities
untimed tests must be considered. The authors then discuss why this is
necessary. The authors further mention that various studies suggest that
not only are most tests unfair to students with disabilities but they are
also culturally biased. The authors assert that timed tests do not demonstrate
what students with disabilities know but just reflect their disability. They
argue that the Scholastic Aptitude Test, when taken by students with
disabilities, reflect improvement when the students are granted extended
time.
Rieth, H.J., & Polsgrove, L. (1994).
Curriculum and instructional issues in teaching secondary students with
learning disabilities. Learning Disabilities Research and Practice, 9(2),
118-126.
The authors begin by discussing how mainstreaming
learning disabled students into secondary school curriculum is not
as effective as it could be. Students with learning disabilities
tend to have more failure
experiences in the mainstream classroom. The authors state that the
mainstream curriculum needs to be modified to better fit learning
disabled students'
needs. Three "prototypic models" are presented. The model
curricula involve incorporating cognitive, metacognitive and social
skills training
into classroom instruction.
The authors discuss the research regarding
specific types of curricular content that are most beneficial for students
with learning disabilities. They note that it is important to set appropriate
but challenging goals for student achievement, but that few relevant guidelines
regarding goal specification are available. However, there is evidence
that actively involving students in the goal setting process has positive
impact. The authors discuss how teachers need to acknowledge different
learning styles and not create their curricula based on the assumption
that all students learn in the same way. The article makes clear that it
is important for LD students to be active learners in a structured curriculum
which makes explicit conceptual links, gives frequent feedback, provides
some metacognitive and cognitive skills training, and makes no assumptions
about how students learn.
Content area strategies for reading/language,
math, social studies, and science are presented. The authors note that
there is a paucity of research on best strategies in the latter three areas.
Issues related to environmental and procedural accommodations are also
discussed.
Ruzic, R (2001). Lessons for everyone: How students with reading-related
learning disabilities survive and excel in college courses with heavy reading
requirements. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the American
Educational Research Association, Seattle Washington. internet: www.cast.org/udl/lessonsforeveryone1540.cfm
As stated by the author, college courses
transmit content mostly through reading and lecture. This may cause
academic difficulties for students with LD. Because most of the studies
that examine students with disabilities in college collect information
using retrospective interviews or surveys, the author approached the
subject qualitatively by following a group of students and collecting
data from
a variety of sources. The study investigated the strategies these
students use and how they correlated with students' perceptions of
their abilities, course requirements, and educational goals. The students
that participated attended a single large, urban, four-year college
in
the northeast. Using the data collected, the author then analyzed
strategies associated with success and suggested implications (individual
and institutional).
Sandock, B. (--) Enhancing learning of students with LD without compromising
standards: Tips for teachers. Internet: http://www.ksu.edu/dss/Enhancing-Learning.htm
In this article, Sandock addresses the issue of how to accommodate students
with LD while enhancing the learning of all students without compromising
course content. Also emphasized is how faculty attitude is important
when accommodating these students. This involves having an open minded
approach to teaching in different modalities while considering the sequence
of assignments and assessment strategies. Faculty must reflect on their
own teaching styles in an effort to be concrete and sequential in their methods. In
addition to this, the author gives helpful information and tips on how to
prepare syllabi and lectures. The information presented is short, direct,
and a handy reference tool.
Schnapp, L. (1995). Educating postsecondary
students with learning disabilities. NADE Selected Conference Papers,
27-28.
The author explains how the need to service
people with learning disabilities has changed education in the postsecondary
setting. Various issues such as defining learning disabilities, the need
for students to accept their disability, and other issues pertaining to
students are discussed. Also addressed are the challenges that institutions
and instructors must face to help these students be successful.
Schnapp, L. (1997). Writing success for
the postsecondary students with learning Disabilities. NADE Selected
Conference Papers, Volume 3, 41-43.
In her article, Schnapp introduces a "multi-stage
process" writing technique (before writing, during writing, and after writing)
to teach students with learning disabilities better writing skills. She
details each of these steps that help students to work in different settings,
group or individual, and gives details on how these are implemented through
explanations and examples. Then she later discusses how technology
can help writers with special needs improve their writing skills.
Schuck, J. (1992). Teaching with (com)passion:
A lifeline for students with learning disabilities. Faculty Development,
5(2), 1-3
This article helps faculty members understand
the needs of students with learning disabilities in an attempt to raise
teachers' compassion levels in instruction and interaction. With the
numbers of students with LD on the rise in college settings, due in part
to the inclusive nature of their K-12 education, instructors must be aware
of their needs. One particular issue that the author displays is that
many LD students hide their disability, sometimes until after failing an
exam they then disclose their disability. The disadvantage to that is
an instructor then usually asks for proof of the disability, which is an
uncomfortable situation for the instructor and the student. So in order
to eliminate some of the problems the instructor should be open in the
beginning of the class by posting a statement of their open door policy
on the syllabus. This article continues to discuss issues that students
with LD face in an attempt to help faculty to understand this disability. Then
they offer tips that help with accommodation.
Schwarz, R. & Burt, M. (1995). ESL instruction
for learning disabled adults. Adjunct ERIC Clearinghouse
for ESL Literacy. (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED379966)
The authors begin by restating evidence that the lack
of English acquisition among some adults suggests that a learning disability
may be the factor. Offered are ways to identify ESL adults with learning
disabilities. Along with this they list other reasons for lack of progress
that should also be considered. Assessment measures are discussed that
could help in the diagnosis of LD. In addition, ways to modify instruction
and a few technology ideas are provided. This information can be useful
for those working with diverse populations.
Scott, S. S. (1997). Accommodating College Students with Learning
Disabilities: How Much Is Enough? Innovative Higher Education,
22, 85-99.
Discusses the ethical concern often faced by college faculty in balancing
the needs and rights of students with learning disabilities with the academic
integrity of the course, program, and institution. Briefly defines learning
disabilities and federal regulations concerning them. Examines ethical issues
and some misconceptions, and makes recommendations for informed and active
participation of faculty in accommodating these students.
Scott, S.S. (1994). Determining reasonable
academic adjustments for college students with learning disabilities. Journal
of Learning Disabilities, 27(7), 403-412.
The author discusses the importance of determining
essential components at the program and course level. For learning
disabled students, this means defining the "thinking and learning processes" that
merit accommodation. Nondiscriminatory practice in higher education
institutions is discussed from the standpoint of Federal law and
implementation regulation
documents. According to these documents, it is discriminatory to impose
rules which deny access to necessary accommodations, deny auxiliary
aids which put disabled students at a disadvantage, and require
tests that are
biased against disabled students. It is not discriminatory however,
to deny accommodations if they result in compromising the essential
standards
of a program or course. Recent case law is discussed to illustrate
these points and demonstrate their implementation. The difference
between accommodation
and personal service is discussed, and how the latter crosses the boundary
of acceptable non-discriminatory practice.
The second part of the article
deals with recommendations for how to operate in a non-discriminatory
manner at both
the institutional and classroom level. Recommendations are made regarding
defining essential components, ensuring the adequate documentation
of disability, determining whether a student is qualified to receive
an accommodation,
and whether this accommodation is reasonable. Though discussion is
directed towards learning disabilities, the principles are applicable
to any disability
group.
Scott, S.S. (1990). Coming to terms with
the "otherwise qualified" student with a learning disability. Journal
of Learning Disabilities, 23(7), 398-405.
This article contains content which is similar
to that in Scott (1990). The author discusses how to provide accommodations
for learning disabled students without compromising the academic integrity
of a program or course. The limits established by legislation and case
law for what are deemed appropriate accommodations are discussed. Specifically,
the author notes that "limitations in duty to accommodate include
no fundamental alterations in requirements and no undue financial or administrative
burden". A major theme in the article is how determining the essential
components of a program or course establishes a foundation for evaluating
which accommodations are most appropriate.
The article covers issues in
admission standards for students with learning disabilities, accommodation
strategies for these
students once admitted, and institutional practices in these areas which
follow the tenets of legislation and litigation. The article concludes
with some concrete guidelines on how to implement non-discriminatory accommodation
practices. The author outlines how to determine mandatory prerequisites
and objectives (i.e. essential components) at both the course and program
level, and how to define admissible accommodation strategies in light of
these immutable program components.
Seeling, S. (1987). A college
guide to LD service providers. Long Island University Transition
Project, Long Island University, Brooklyn, N.Y., April 1987.
Admissions policies, implications of Section 504, the special needs
of LD students, accommodations, support services, and the best approaches
for meeting the
needs of LD college student are the issues addressed in this article.
The author first begins by discussing the usual college admissions
policies. She
states that most college personnel lack an understanding of what a
learning disability is and may identify it as retardation; this
perception becomes
a barrier for LD students. Despite the fact that there is a growing
awareness of how to accommodate students with special needs, it is
still necessary for colleges to plan and initiate/develop appropriate
accommodations
for these students. When discussing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation
Act of 1973 the author notes that many institutions fall short and
must review its contents to prevent discriminatory actions. Understanding
the LD college student is another section in this article. It talks
about characteristics of these students displayed in the classroom
setting. Also
it mentions the cognitive and motivational factors of LD students.
The next section provides suggestions and accommodation methods
that faculty
can use in the classroom. Then there is a brief overview given on
how to make a support service program efficient. The ending of the
article provides an appendix that includes sample forms used with LD
college students. This gives concrete examples of things people
can use in
a higher education setting. This writing provides useful information
that can be implemented in today's classrooms.
Shannon, D.M.. (1998). Effective teacher
behaviors in higher education and in LIS education programs: A review of
the literature. Journal of Education for Library and Information Sciences,
39(3), 163-174.
Though this article is in an LIS journal,
most of the content remains generally applicable. Only at the end of the
article are issues discussed specifically within the LIS context. The
author presents a general overview of research related to effective teaching
in higher education. She argues that research focusing on abstract constructs
such as flexibility and enthusiasm is less meaningful practically since "these..constructs
are too vague to provide real help for individual instructors trying to
improve their teaching skills." (p.164). Hence, discussion focuses
on research examining more concrete constructs related to teacher behaviors. The
instructor behavior research is divided into three sections: Process Product
studies, or research that attempts to link teaching behaviors with students
outcomes; studies examining students' perceptions of effective teaching,
and; Teacher Immediacy studies, or research related to "verbal and
non-verbal communication behaviors of college teachers that affect their
relationship with students." (p.168).
In general, results of Process
Product studies indicate that concrete behaviors projecting enthusiasm,
clarity, and receptiveness
most strongly relate to student outcomes and that this relationship
is stronger for affective outcomes as opposed to cognitive. Results
of research related to student perceptions indicate that both students
and teachers
agree that organization, receptiveness, and subject matter knowledge
characterize effective teachers, but they disagree on teaching approaches: "students
are far more concerned with teacher enthusiasm and teacher stimulation
of interest in the subject or the course, while instructors are far more
likely to rate as important the teacher's ability to provide intellectual
challenge and to stimulate students' intellectual curiosity." (p/166). Thus
it appears that students value approaches which, through the stimulation
of affect (as opposed to the intellect), make course content more accessible
to them and that instructor-valued approaches like "presenting thought
provoking ideas" or "encouraging independent thought" are
too focused on the assumption that all students come into the course with
intellectual curiosity already piqued: These constructs may also be too
broad or vague for students to notice and appreciate, although it follows
that they must be realized (at least in some students) when students become
affectively engaged. This is evidence that instructors should be more
concrete in their instructional philosophy and approach.
The author also
summarizes several models for enhancing instructional effectiveness:
Lowman's Two Dimensional Model
of Effective College Teaching which involved the instructor's capacity
to instill intellectual excitement in students as well as establish
an interpersonal rapport; the Seven Principles for Good Practice in
Undergraduate
Education which was established by a task force of educators an researchers
(see references for Chickering et al in this bibliography for more
details of this model), and' Weimer's 5-step Process for Improving
Teaching which
advocates that instructors must take a systematic approach to improving
instruction.
Though the article does not address didactical
issues specifically related to disabled students, it is still relevant
to instructors who, in the spirit of universal instructional design,
wish to make learning more accessible to all students. The article simply presents
some "food for thought" on how to meet this objective.
Shuttic, M. (1995). Addressing the math
requirement in higher education. Latest Developments, Fall 1995,
2-3; 11.
This author tackles the question of math
requirements for people with disabilities beginning by offering the
legalities of case-by-case determination for students with special
needs. He goes
on to discuss how the process of establishing what is expected and what
are the alternatives can be time consuming. Examples are used to illustrate
the types of alternatives that are offered for various classes depending
on the university and how assistance is provided to students in the classroom. Despite
accommodations in particular courses, the author questions a policy regarding
requirement alternatives in an attempt to discover if institutions are
meeting all the needs of LD students. Finally the author makes suggestions
that institutions should be able to meet the individual needs of students
and that policies should address two points: ensure that certain requirements
essential to the program are being studied and that policies should
be able to address requirement alternatives.
Silver, P. (1995). Legal issues and college
mathematics requirements. Latest Developments, Fall 1995, 9.
The author discusses how students with disabilities
are required to complete mathematics requirements. The author uses
an example of how a student with a disability was denied a waiver for
a math
class by the college he attended. The college was not breaking the
law by denying the waiver, but was required to offer accommodations
including
substituting the course with a statistics course. The authors offer
another example of this and conclude by saying that service providers
must consider
accommodations other than waivers.
Smith, K. L. (1997). Preparing faculty
for instructional technology: From education to development to creative
independence. Cause/Effect, 20(3), 36-44; 48.
Educators have offered cooperative activities
such as "think-pair-share" and "jigsaw", but these activities don't address
the needs of those who may be at a disadvantage by these activities. This
article addresses the need for teachers to find ways to reach all of
their students by using various cognition and learning theory research.
Teachers can foster a positive learning environment by using technology
that creates
an environment flexible enough to meet all students' needs. If teachers
use a learner-centered approach to instruction it can help all students
succeed. This article breaks down learning styles and strategies in a
chart that is easy to refer to. They integrate technology into curriculum
modifications that can help all students. The article goes on to detail
how the University of Central Florida created a model to help implement
research-based, technology supported, and student centered learning.
This article is important to CTAD as it discusses how technology is
important
in class integration.
Sparks, R. and Javorsky, J. (1999). Students
classified as LD and the college foreign language requirement: replication
and comparison studies. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 32(4),
329-349.
Because of the recent increases of students classified as LD, many of these
students have received course substitutions or waivers for the college
foreign language requirement. This data-rich study investigated whether
LD students, who were permitted to substitute courses for the FL (foreign
language) requirement, exhibited significant differences in cognitive and
academic achievement skills from other LD students who fulfilled the requirements. Less
than half of LD students in college who took a FL passed. Some received
tutoring and only 4% received instructional accommodations. This
report gives a lot more information and can be useful for administrators
and faculty when making decisions about students with disabilities in relation
to foreign language requirements.
Stefancih, G.P. (1998). Curriculum development
in teaching science to students with disabilities. Paper presented
at the annual conference of CSUN (Los Angeles, CA). [Eric Document Reproduction
Service No. ED 420 940] [Internet: www.dinf.org/csum_98/csun98002.htm]
The author talks about how, in science,
most students learn best by observation and active experience. But, these
mainstream classroom practices of instructor modeling and student hands
on experience are geared toward the 'typical student'. The author argues
how these practices need to be modified to effectively involve all students,
not just typical or average students. In this context, the author discusses
a project aimed at training educators to modify the science curriculum
in order to better facilitate disabled students' learning. The content,
objectives, and dissemination plan of the project are presented.
This could
be a good project to keep an eye on in the future. Information disseminated
from the project could be
a useful resource for science instructors.
Thomas, P. V. (1998). Developing mathematical
problem solving skills in students with learning disabilities. NADE
Selected Conference Papers, Volume 4, 43-44.
The author discusses the how the knowledge
of mathematical problem-solving skills is important for students with
learning
disabilities to be successful in math. This article gives details about
a particular problem-solving course developed to assist high-risk students
enhance their problem solving abilities through diverse teaching methods.
Tomlan, P., Farrell, M. & Geis, J.. (1987). The
3 S's of staff development: Scope, sequence, and structure. Journal
of College Student Personnel, 28(1), 23-25.
This article addresses issues of staff development/personnel
training that focus on topics relevant to students with special needs. These
tips can be used across all disciples. They begin with a description of
phase one of the model; this involves distribution, collection, and evaluation
of faculty surveys that address attitudes, knowledge of various handicapping
conditions, and accommodation. Phase two of the design involves making
faculty aware of disabilities and to answer general questions. Phase three,
which is similar to phase two but done in smaller group sessions, provides
more in depth information about disabilities. Phase four is even more
personal as it addresses each faculty member as they encounter individual
students in the classroom. Then in phase five an evaluation such as the
one done first phase is re-evaluated. The authors include an important
list that contains guiding principles for faculty development. Then the
authors discuss the importance of how a syllabus can help faculty and students. This
article gives good groundwork for implementing faculty and staff training
and should be used by CTAD members when developing these types of trainings.
Waksler, R. (1996). Teaching strategies
for a barrier free classroom. Journal on Excellence in College Teaching, 7(2),
99-111.
The author presents 9 teaching strategies
designed to eliminate barriers to student learning often imposed by presentation
method and curriculum format. The strategies encompass three broad instructional
concerns: the syntax or structure of content presentation, the structure
of the physical classroom and course materials, and the methods of promoting
student involvement/participation. Strategies addressing the first concern
are meant to promote universal access to content, and deal with how to
eliminate barriers between information presentation and cognitive processing
of this information by students. Strategies addressing the second concern
promote universal access to content structure, and advocate that
material be presented and organized in a clear, structured manner, where
the structure is readily apparent to all students. The final
locus of strategies is designed to foster universal access to class
participation
and learning engagement.
Though these strategies are founded on the
special needs of visually impaired and hearing impaired students, the
strategies embody universal design principles, promoting better access
for all students,
not only those with certain sensory-perceptual deficits. The author
concludes the article by stating that "In this way all students benefit from
the enhanced clarity of the presentation and unnecessary barriers are not
placed before students with visual or hearing impairments.".
Wallert, P. & Puffer, C. (1995) A systematic approach for assisting
students with learning disabilities in postsecondary education. Internet: http://www.ldonline.org/ld_indepth/postsecondary/ncld_prism.html
The authors recognize the need to address faculty attitudes and
policies regarding students with disabilities in postsecondary education.
This
article offers suggestions as to how to specifically assist students
with learning disabilities. Used to promote this is the acronym "PRISM":
P-Planning, R-Reinforcement, I-Insight, S-Self advocacy, and M- Modifications
and Accommodations. This plan can be used by evryone in the college
community. The planning section addresses the issue of being prepared
for students with LD in the beginning, i.e. freshmen orientation. Then
reinforcement is explained as helping students understand the difference
between high school and college and reinforcing that difference by offering
them positive support. Insight involves the student understanding him/herself
as a learner and what he/she needs to be successful. Self-advocacy
is when the student understands that his/her strongest advocate is oneself
and takes action on this. Finally the modifications and accommodation
section addresses what teachers need to do in the classroom, for example
offering a variety of ways to learn course material. The topics presented
in this article give concrete information for those who work in classroom
situations.
White, L.F. and Austin, S. (1998). Speaking
for students with LD. Paper presented at the 49th Annual
Meeting of the Conference on College Composition and Communication, Chicago,
IL, April 1-4, 1998.
This article discusses some of the issues
and attempts to clear up some misunderstandings regarding learning
disabilities (LD). It talks about the definition of LD and what
it means to have
discrepancy between IQ and achievement. It examines LD from a neurobiological
standpoint and a behaviorist standpoint. The authors do this while
reminding readers that there is no solid evidence to support any of
these hypotheses and that the causes of LD remain hypothetical.
The authors
then go on to discuss conceptual problems with the IQ test and that
the scores are not a good basis for diagnosing LD types of problems.
The
authors also discuss the sociological issues around LD. They state
that diagnosing people as LD has a significant role in how people view
each other in today's society.
Williams, A. & Hensley, B. (1997).
Tactile and auditory aids for mathematics students with visual impairments. NADE
Selected Conference Papers, Volume 3, 58-60
In this article, the authors explain how
certain teaching aids assist students with visual impairments become
more productive in math subjects. They give examples of aids such
as more time for test and quizzes, use of tape recorders, and technological
devices.
York, J., Doyle, M. & Kronberg, R. (1992). A
curriculum development process for inclusive classroom. Focus on Exceptional
Children, 25(4), 1-16.
This article discusses strategies to meet
the needs of students with disabilities in grade school inclusive classrooms
that help all students in the class. The authors begin by introducing
the idea of inclusive education in a grade school setting. Students with
disabilities, who were temporally removed from the class for a brief amount
of time, are now spending more time in the regular classrooms. The educational
system has outgrown separation of general and special education and now
"more sophisticated" interaction is needed using the resources available
in schools. Teachers must be prepared for this in their curriculum. The
authors give an explanation of inclusion. They clear up some of the misconceptions
of inclusion and make it meaningful to more people. Then the issue of
curriculum is addressed, as one must change their way of thinking to encourage
an inclusive setting. A small list is provided to help educators shift
their thinking to design a curriculum for students with disabilities,
such as making students feel part of a community, teaching skills that
are useful
across contexts, and teaching specific skills that are respective to
the curricular area.
Next, the authors share how to develop curriculum
and implement it. It is important for the teacher to develop proximity
for students and understand how students learn most effectively. A process
is presented for developing curriculum that is effective for students with
disabilities as well as general education students. The group of educators,
or "team", must get together in the Fall and discuss the issues of inclusion
and transition of students into inclusive classrooms for the new academic
year. This article offers a list of charts and classroom activities that
help students build a feeling of community and promote social connections. Then
it shows how to foster a positive learning environment and help the academic
year be successful. This article is full of information for teachers
of grade school students, but can be helpful for CTAD participants
by giving
some ideas that can be generalized to higher education.
Zirkel, P. (2000). Sorting out which
students have learning disabilities. The Chronicle of Higher Learning,
47(5), B15-B16.
Because the number of students with disabilities in college settings
has risen, faculty must be aware of students that may have misdiagnosed
learning
disabilities. The author asserts that students diagnosed with LD in
higher education settings usually have higher incomes on average and
are often white. He says that the college community must be aware
of this,
and that the question should remain regarding whether some of these students
are truly learning disabled or whether they are "upper-income game players".
He suggests that colleges and universities should conduct research that
systematically
helps identify students with disabilities. Furthermore, Congress or
the Department of Education should clarify the definition of LD and schools
should interpret it more uniformly. Also, the values and techniques of
high stakes testing should be closely examined and all students should
be allowed
to take untimed tests. This article can raise awareness of faculty
members regarding how students with learning disabilities may be misdiagnosed
and the policy implications of diagnosis/misdiagnosis.
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