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Years ago, colleges often didn’t consider learning disabilities. Today, thanks to research and improvement in general knowledge, we know how to accommodate students of all abilities and make the classroom more accessible to all. Colleges offer learning disability resources such as:
Note-taking services
There are note-takers in every class. Sometimes, the university’s Office of Disability Services gets in touch with students who are good note-takers and pays them to send their notes to the office. This helps students with disabilities who share that class stay up to date on all the course content. Students who attend classes that don’t have a designated note-taker, are encouraged to talk to the instructor, who will then help them find a classmate who is willing to share their notes.
Priority class registration
Students register on all of their classes on the first day of registration of the semester. This gives the advisor time to meet with the student. Together, they can plan the schedule considering mobilization and also any extra accommodations that may be needed.
Sign language interpreters
For those students who have hearing impairments and take classes in which they have to present, sign language interpreters can also be assigned in courses the student takes.
Course substitutions
Universities may consider course substitutions depending on the students’ situation. The school evaluates each case separately after the student requests a change of course. The request has to sent 3 semesters prior to the beginning of that certain course. The paperwork must be filled and also turned in.
In addition to special accommodations, offered by universities, many organizations have been created with the purpose of helping those students who are disabled
Easter Seals
The Easter Seals has different teams of doctors, teachers, and therapists to help disabled students and their parents. They offer recreation and medical rehabilitation for disabled students and also include their families during the whole process.
United Cerebral Palsy
This organization has, as its main goal, the provision of services to ensure disabled students a more independent life. They want to help people have a life with fewer limits and teach them how to be productive in their own personal way.
Friendship Circle International
This group hosts holiday programs, camps, home visits, and also sports teams. It is a Jewish organization that brings together volunteer and disabled to students, to help them create long-lasting friendships. They have 80 locations all around the world.
Federation for Children with Special Needs
They help not only disabled children but also their parents and families. They have summer camps, support groups for parents, health and psychology professionals, and a special education team. Their goal is to encourage disabled teens to be more involved in their communities. They believe disabled people have a different perspective on life and think that their involvement with different communities will help improve society.
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Each student’s case is unique and therefore requires different learning disability resources, accommodations, or considerations. It’s important to get in touch with a college’s Disability Services office to learn more about what that school can offer. Ideally, you should always visit a campus to get a feel for the school.
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