Project EXCEL-UO Summer Institute 2011 Expanding Cultural Awareness of Exceptional Learners at the University of Oregon
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Project EXCEL-UO Overview
Train-thetrainer
Web-based Resources
CULTURE CHANGE
Print Resources
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Training Activities Day
Theme
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Awareness—Defining and Understanding
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History, Laws, Accommodations, University Supports Universal Design, Planning, Delivering, Evaluating Instruction Developing Goals and Spreading Information
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Day 1 Agenda
Concept of Normality Terminology/Communication Children and Youth College Students and Disability Types LUNCH Universal/Inclusive Design Student Panel 4
Concept of Normality
Brief Overview of Normal Distribution
Defining normality and abnormality (Testing)
Social Construction of Disability • Why categories exist? 5
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Constructs of Disability
(based on the work of Carol Gill, Chicago Institute of Disability Research)
Medical
Sociopolitical
Disability is a deficiency or abnormality Disability resides in the individual
Disability is a difference
The remedy for disability-related problems is cure or normalization of the individual
The agent of remedy is the professional who affects the arrangements between the individual and society
Disability derives from interaction between individual and society The remedy for disability-related problems is a change in the interaction between the individual and society The agent of remedy can be the individual, an advocate, or anyone who affects the arrangements between the individual and society
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Terminology
People first language – students with disabilities Ask, don’t make assumptions Talk directly Speak normally Be aware of personal space Avoid offensive terms, such as restricted to a wheelchair, victim of, suffers from, retarded, deformed, crippled. If you are unsure, ask the person with a disability what terminology is preferred. 8
Facts About Children & Youth
Approximately 10-12% of students aged 6-21 are receiving special education services in public elementary, middle, and high schools (U.S. Department of Education, 2005)
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Range of Disabilities Among Children & Youth High Incidence Categories Low Incidence Categories
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Learning Disabilities (LD) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Speech Language Disorders (SLD) Emotional & Behavioral (EBD)/Psychological Mild Mental Retardation (MMR)
• • • • • • •
Visual/Blind Hearing Impair/Deaf Physical/Orthopedic Disabilities Traumatic Brain Injured Autism Moderate & Severe Mental Retardation Multiple Disabilities
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Autism, 2.3 Visual, 0.4 Orhopedic, 1.1
Multiple, 2.5
TBI, 0.4 DD, 1.1
Hearing, 1.2 Other Health, 7.5
Emotional/ Behav, 8
Learning Disability, 47.4
Mental Retardation, 9.6
Speech/ Language, 18.7 11
Major Differences between K-12 and University Settings K-12
IDEA Mandates Free Appropriate Public Ed Child Find Zero Reject 15 federally defined Categories Mandated Supports and Services including major modifications as needed Funding
College/University Civil rights law (to prevent discrimination) Self-Disclosure Qualify for admission
Broad definition, (record of impairment or substantial limitations in major life activity
Reasonable Accommodations that do NOT fundamentally alter program requirements
Limited Funding 12
Basic facts about College & University
Approximately 60% of students without disabilities attend some form of postsecondary school following high school (NCES, 2006) Approximately 42% of students with disabilities report having been enrolled (2 years prior to interview, NLTS2)
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Students with disabilities that do attend are approximately 5X more likely to be attending 2-year community colleges or vocational/technical schools rather than 4-year universities. In contrast, students without disabilities are most likely to attend 4 year colleges (3 x’s) rather than 2-year or vocational.
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Percentage of Students With Disabilities in Universities
Approximately 9% of students at 4-year doctorate degree granting (public & private) institutions report having some form of a disability (NCES, 2006).
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Definition in university context is broader than in K-12
At the University of Oregon, approximately 4% of students report having a disability.
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Disclosure in university context vs. disclosure in a survey. 14
Number of Self-Identified Students at UO, OSU, & OUS Over Time 3372 3300
2942
3000 2700
2319
2400
2044
2100 1800
UO (Unduplicated)
1550
OSU (Unduplicated)
1500
OUS (Unduplicated)
1200
2001
2003
2005
2007
599
761
553
472
553
592
434
0
353
300
412
600
682
900
2009 15
Percentage of Self-Identified Students With Disabilities of Overall Student Population 5
4
UO
3
OSU 2
OUS
1
0 2001
2003
2005
2007
2009
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Proportion of Students by Category 100 90 80 70
National
60 50
UO
40 30 20 10 0
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ng ri
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is V
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p ho rt O
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c sy
D H
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D A
LD
Note. Other at UO includes head injury, seizure, autism spectrum. USDOE, NCES 2006-184.
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Disabilities In The University Context We’re going to talk about disabilities by providing an overview with medical labels, common characteristics, and typical college student experiences.
• • • • • • • • •
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Learning Disabilities (LD) Brain Injury Health Conditions Psychological/ Mental Health Asperger’s Syndrome Mobility Hearing/Deafness Vision/Blindness 18
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Defining
Inattention
Hyperactivity
Impulsivity
Age of Onset—Explicit age-of-onset requirement evidence of impairment before 7 years of age. Impairment present in two or more settings Clear evidence of clinically significant impairment from symptoms in social, academic or occupational functioning
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ADHD: Challenges in College
Taking notes Maintaining attention and focus Meeting deadlines Organization (study strategies, writing) Time Management Processing speed (especially reading) Interpersonal relationships (roommate issues) 20
ADHD Activity http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/misunderstoodmi nds/experiences/attexp1a.html
Question/Discussion on ADHD?
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Learning Disability Definition:
A disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or in using language, spoken or written, that may manifest itself in an imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell, or do mathematical calculations, including such conditions as perceptual disabilities, brain injury, minimal brain dysfunction, dyslexia, and developmental aphasia.
The term does not include learning problems that are primarily the result of visual, hearing or motor disabilities, of mental retardation, of emotional disturbance, or of environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage
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Learning Disability-Identification
Identification
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Traditionally LD has been identified as a discrepancy between IQ or “capacity” and achievement “performance” in one or more areas, reading, written language, mathematics. By far, the largest proportion of students with LD are identified due to difficulties in processing written language in the area of reading. Increasingly identified by Response to Intervention (RTI) Age of Onset-Primarily Childhood
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Learning Disabilities: Potential Challenges in College
Reading Comprehension Reading Speed Spelling – in class writing Quick responses on exams Organization of writing Comprehending and using spoken language Technical vocabulary Mathematics—Lesser extent
By the time enrolled in college, Students with LD may have developed compensatory strategies to deal with challenges. 25
Oral Language– the embedded curriculum Activity
• Tell a round robin story.
Each participant add a sentence. The first sentence is— ”Yesterday I went to the grocery store to buy some vegetables”
• Now we are going to retell the story (with a twist).
“N”
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Simulations
Other Simulations
• Perception • Figure (Perception) • Color/Word (Processing Conflict) • Auditory Information • Decoding (Reading processing)
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Group Activity
In pairs, discuss what you expect of students: • How might your course design/requirements create barriers for students with LD or ADHD?
• Memory • Organization or Time Management • Oral Language • Reading • Writing • Math • Attention & Hyperactivity
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Brain Injury and Concussion
Disturbance in brain function caused by a blow or jolt to the head
Usually period of altered consciousness (amnesia or coma) – from very brief (minutes) to very long (months/indefinitely)
May impact visual, aural, neurologic, perceptive/cognitive, orthopedic, or mental/emotional areas
Severity ranges from "mild," (a brief change in mental status or consciousness) to "severe” (extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia)
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Brain Injury: Some Potential Areas of Difficulty Depends on location and severity of injury Processing speed Reasoning/calculation Judgment Memory/Concentration Speech Physical functions/Motor skills Personality changes, mood swings Organizational abilities may be impacted Sleep 30
Brain Injury – What you can do
Be consistent - helps improve memory, reduce confusion, promote emotional control Provide structure - Give step by step instructions Allow response time Frequent repetition Avoid overstimulation 31
Health Conditions-Defining
Includes a range of medical conditions that can have a temporary or chronic impact on academic performance, i.e. Arthritis, Cancer, Multiple Sclerosis, Asthma, AIDS, Cerebral Palsy, Diabetes, Fibromyalgia, and heart disease.
Medication side effects and the secondary effects of chronic illness can impact memory, attention, strength, endurance, and energy levels. 32
Health—Potential College Challenges
Fatigue Pain Concentration Memory Maintaining consistent class attendance due to fluctuations in health condition and need for treatments Limited mobility Diminished stamina for long writing or reading assignments. Tolerance of stress 33
Psychological/Mental Health
Covers a broad range including Bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, chronic mental illness
Often functioning can be greatly improved with medication, therapy, and social support
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Bipolar Disorder Bipolar Disorder Symptoms of bipolar disorder are more severe than the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through from time to time.
Age of Onset – Adolescence/Early Adulthood - At least half of all cases start before age 25. Some people have their first symptoms during childhood, while others may develop symptoms late in life.
NIMH (2009)
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Depression--Definition People with depressive illnesses do not all experience the same symptoms. The severity, frequency and duration of symptoms will vary depending on the individual and his or her particular illness. Symptoms include: Persistent sad, anxious or "empty" feelings Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness Irritability, restlessness Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex Fatigue and decreased energy Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping Overeating, or appetite loss Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
Age of Onset—Between the ages of 30-40
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Bipolar and/or Depression: Potential College Challenges Cont.
Attendance Concentration Adjustment to Medications Meeting Deadlines Tolerance for Stress Financial Stresses Processing Speed 37
Anxiety Disorder—Defined
Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress. It helps one deal with a tense situation in the office, study harder for an exam, keep focused on an important speech. In general, it helps one cope. But when anxiety becomes an excessive, irrational dread of everyday situations, it has become a disabling disorder.
Five major types of anxiety disorders are:
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Generalized Anxiety Disorder GAD, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder OCD, Panic Disorder Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Social Phobia (or Social Anxiety Disorder) (NIMH, 2009) 38
Anxiety Disorders: Potential College Challenges Cont.
Being comfortable in a classroom environment Engagement and participation High stress situations - Taking examinations, answering questions, group or individual presentations. Meeting deadlines. Course content, such as war or domestic violence images or discussions can be triggers 39
Psychological: College Challenges
Poor concentration, fatigue, anxiety, irritability, apathy, problems with perception, physical symptoms Medications can cause undesirable side effects, ie. disorientation, drowsiness, lack of creativity When treatment is effective periods of active symptoms may be infrequent 40
Psychological – What you can do
Listen to student’s needs or concerns Engage student in conversation if invited by student Invite student to meet with you if you have concerns about performance, attendance, etc.. Be aware of campus resources – Disability Services, Counseling Center, Office of Student Life Take seriously any reference to suicidal ideation Recognize that getting to class and/or engaging with academic work may be a huge undertaking
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Asperger's Syndrome
Social Interactions – challenge understanding obvious and subtle social cues and rules; failure to develop developmentally appropriate peer relationships Communication Skills – very literal and concrete, may blurt out thoughts, limited use of gestures, precocious speech, may have restricted interests, repetitive behaviors (especially when stressed) Change is very hard- inflexible adherence to nonfunctional routines or behaviors. Likes rules! Needs to find interest or relevance to be motivated. Sensory sensitivities – smell, textures light, sound 42
Asperger’s - What you can do
Provide very concrete and specific instructions – rules to follow When possible relate to area of interest Make any changes as predictable and structured as possible Be aware of hypersensitivities to light, noise, smell etc. 43
Mobility Impairment--Define
Orthopedic or neuromuscular conditions can impact mobility and/or hand functions.
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Spinal Cord Injury (paraplegia or quadriplegia), Cerebral Palsy, Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, amputation, Muscular Dystrophy, cardiac conditions, Arthritis, and respiratory diseases
Movement and function may be facilitated by canes, walkers, prostheses, or wheelchairs , as well as splints or braces
Very wide range of experiences, specific diagnoses, prognoses, and severity 44
Mobility: Possible Challenges and College
Manipulation of objects: grasping, writing, or typing Turning pages, retrieving research materials Physical access to classrooms, offices, and programs -Identifying accessible seating Increased time to travel between classes Decreased endurance for extended activity
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Mobility - Non-classroom Challenges
Heavy doors Cracks in sidewalks Steep ramps/ pathways Crowds Inaccessible restrooms Inattentiveness of others while walking Power outages – no elevator access Slick sidewalks due to rain or ice and snow Difficulty transporting books and equipment due to needing arms and hands free 46
Hearing Impairments & Deafness— Definition ~ Frank Bender
Hearing impairment is a broad term used to describe the loss of hearing in one or both ears. There are different levels of hearing impairment:
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Hearing impairment refers to complete or partial loss of the ability to hear from one or both ears. Can be mild, moderate, severe or profound; Deafness refers to the complete loss of ability to hear from one or both ears.
There are two types of hearing impairment:
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Conductive hearing impairment - a problem in the outer or middle ear. This is often medically or surgically treatable, if there is access to the necessary services. Childhood middle ear infection is a common cause Sensorineural hearing impairment - usually due to a problem with the inner ear, and occasionally with the hearing nerve going from there to the brain. This type of hearing problem is usually permanent and requires rehabilitation, such as with a hearing aid. Common causes are excessive noise, aging and trauma. (World Health Organization, 2009)
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College Challenges for Students with Hearing Impairment and Those Who are Deaf
Unaware of the degree of their hearing loss Following lecture materials, taking effective notes, working in groups, and physical and emotional challenges associated with fatigue. Emotional barriers impeding requests for support, utilizing campus resources, or open to using technology supports. A feeling of both ability level and cultural isolation & frustration.
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Supports for Students with Hearing Impairments or those Who are Deaf
Communication may be enhanced via speech, hearing aids, lip reading, or use of an interpreter utilizing sign language. FM or infrared amplification systems may be used (amplifies sound from microphone to receiver) Many people who are Deaf learn American Sign Language (ASL) as their first language, and English as their second language. ASL is a distinct language with unique characteristics
• •
When utilizing an interpreter – speak to the student. This could also impact writing skills. 50
Strategies to Support Students with Hearing Impairments or those Who are Deaf—What You Can Do
When communicating with student, always face the student. Facial expressions, gestures, and body language will help convey your message. Use visual aids (PPT, Notes, etc.) Try to avoid writing on the white/chalk board and talking at the same time – if so, repeat paraphrase your message to the class. Be aware of your speech volume and pace Check for comprehension – A good strategy for entire class. Be open to the use of FM technology 51
Current Hearing Technology
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Visual Impairments & Blindness-Definition
Three categories: 1) Restricted Central Visual Acuity 2) Visual Field Loss -Restricted Peripheral Vision 3) Difficulty with focusing and eye movements (Focusing or binocular coordination)
"Low vision" a severe visual impairment applied to individuals with sight who are unable to read the newspaper at a normal viewing distance, even with the aid of eyeglasses or contact lenses. They use a combination of vision and other senses to learn, although they may require adaptations in lighting or the size of print, and, sometimes, Braille.
“Legally blind" person has less than 20/200 vision in the better eye or a very limited field of vision (20 degrees at its widest point)
Totally blind students have no vision and often learn via Braille and/or auditory
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Blindness or Low Vision: Potential College Challenges • • • • • • •
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Reading Course material Following visual information presented in class Becoming oriented to campus, and traveling throughout campus Taking notes during class Writing papers Responding to written exams Lack of accessibility of some web pages, pdfs, and other electronic resources Technology failures Effectively studying visually based concepts 54
Vision—What You Can Do
Determine reading materials far in advance (when possible make available in electronic format) Describe visually presented information, be aware of print size in lectures Minimize non-text content in exam/quizzes Advance copies of lecture notes, slides, etc.. 55
Student Veterans
“Wounded Warriors”
Head injury (different than past wars – higher survival rate, head trauma often resulting from reverberations of loud blasts, as opposed to direct impact to the head)
Mobility
Hearing
Psychological 56
Universal and Inclusive Design
Molly Sirois Advisor, Disability Services 164 Oregon Hall 541-346-1073
[email protected]
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Constructs of Disability
(based on the work of Carol Gill, Chicago Institute of Disability Research)
Medical
Sociopolitical
Disability is a deficiency or abnormality Disability resides in the individual
Disability is a difference
The remedy for disability-related problems is cure or normalization of the individual
The agent of remedy is the professional who affects the arrangements between the individual and society
Disability derives from interaction between individual and society The remedy for disability-related problems is a change in the interaction between the individual and society The agent of remedy can be the individual, an advocate, or anyone who affects the arrangements between the individual and society
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Human Variation Model Disability defined as a mismatch between physical and mental attributes and the ability of social institutions to incorporate those attributes Shriner & Scotch, 2001
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Universal Design (UD)
• The design of products and environments to be usable by as many people as possible regardless of age, ability, or situation without the need for adaptation or accommodation 60
Universal Design in Education • The design of instructional materials and activities that makes learning goals achievable by individuals with wide differences in their abilities to see, hear, speak, move, read, write, understand English, attend, organize, engage, and remember. continued
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Universal Design in Education
Universal design for learning is achieved by means of flexible curricular materials and activities that provide alternatives for students with differing abilities. These alternatives are built into the instructional design and operating systems of educational materials. They are not added on after-the-fact. (Research Connections, Number 5, Fall 1999, p. 2)
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Student Panel Undergraduate and Graduate students with disabilities share their experiences as college students.
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Final Activity
Take a few minutes to write • Three things you learned and • One thing you would like to know.
Things
to REMEMBER!! Please bring one of your course syllabi on Day 3!!! 64
Day 2: Agenda History and Laws
• Special Education • Federal Legislation • Law and Universities
How it Works on College Campuses
• General Resources • Documentation and Notification • Accommodations and Other Strategies 65
History and Laws
History of Special Education • IQ testing • Civil rights movement • State initiatives • University of Oregon
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Historical & Current Outcomes
Employment Earnings Independent Living Post-Secondary
• • •
Training, 2 Year, 4 year Attendance vs. graduation Increasing numbers
Potential causes of poor outcomes 67
Legal Issues Heidi von Ravensberg, JD, MBA Adjunct Instructor School of Law University of Oregon (541) 346-2472
[email protected] 68
Federal Legislation: Overview
***1973 Vocational Rehabilitation Act (Sec. 504) 1974 Educational Amendments Act 1974 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) 1975 Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA) 1986 Education of the Handicapped Act Amendments **1990 and 2008 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 1990 & 1997 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 69
Law and Universities
Non-Discrimination
•
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Section 504 (1973 Voc. Rehab. Act) mandates that any public institution of higher education that receives federal funding including financial aid can not discriminate against otherwise qualified students with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (1990 ADA) mandates that any public or private institution with 15 or more employees can not discriminate against otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities.
• Admissions • Education • Exit Requirements
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Admissions
Students must be qualified - meet academic and technical standards required for admission No quotas on admission Confidentiality - Cannot inquire about a disability
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The Enrolled Student
Reasonable accommodations Modifications to policies, practices and procedures
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Architectural barrier removal Provision of auxiliary aids and services The institution must make only reasonable accommodations or modifications:
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To students who have disclosed and documented their disability No undue financial or administrative burden Does not fundamentally or substantially alter major program or degree requirements Is not a direct threat to health or safety
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Appropriate educational adjustments INCLUDE
Accommodations must be made to allow meaningful access to education.
Requires one to distinguish between thinking and learning processes that are affected by LD or ADHD and thinking or learning processes that are essential to the academic integrity of a program.
Sec. 504 provides examples -- taped texts, substitution of required courses, adapting the manner in which something is taught or assessed -- but provides no guidance on how to apply these accommodations. 73
Academic Standards
Institutions are not required to make accommodations that would lower academic standards or compromise integrity of programs or schools. However, important to be able to justify how an alteration would lower the academic standards.
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Legal Decisions
Determining Reasonableness of the Requested Accommodation
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Courts will defer to the institution’s determination where the facts add up to a professional academic judgment Courts want to make sure institution goes through specific process (did relevant officials consider the range of accommodations, feasibility, cost and effect on the academic program and come to a rationally justifiable conclusion that the available alternatives would result either in lowering academic standards or requiring substantial program alteration.)
Wynne v. Tufts University School of medicine, 932 F.2d 19 (1st Cir. 1991). 75
Types of Accommodations
Auxiliary aids and services Assistance animals Barrier removal Reduced course loads Incompletes Refrain from academic suspension or termination Substitution of courses Waiver of courses Exam accommodations Excuse or accommodate behavior or conduct
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Legal Decisions
Requested accommodations were ordered or found reasonable Extra time to take exam or complete course of study Retake examinations or courses Modified curriculum or course substitutions
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Receive incomplete in course Refrain from suspending from academic program
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How it Works on College Campuses
Typically one office is responsible for determining eligibility and coordinating the provision of accommodations The entire institution is responsible for making sure the campus is inclusive and welcoming to all students
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University of Oregon Disability Services 164 Oregon Hall (541) 346-1155
[email protected]
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College Disability Resource Offices
• • • • • • •
Determine eligibility for accommodations, and coordinate as needed Facilitate removal of barriers: architectural, curricular, attitudinal Empower students to articulate their needs and self-advocate Provide guidance on academic issues/decisions Work with faculty and others to increase access for all students, and to provide individual student accommodations when needed Serve as a resource to university community Develop disability related institutional policies and procedures 80
Other Support
Time management/organizational skills Specific study strategies Academic Planning Teaching self-advocacy/ selfdetermination Conferencing
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Other UO Resources
University Counseling Center Academic Advising Teaching and Learning Center Office of Dean of Students Career Center University Health Center
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Sample Syllabus Statement The University of Oregon is working to create inclusive learning environments. Please notify me if there are aspects of the instruction or design of this course that result in barriers to your participation. You may also wish to contact Disability Services in 164 Oregon Hall at 346-1155 or
[email protected] 83
Course Syllabi
Procedural Considerations • Adding a disability statement • Working in pairs develop a statement for students with disabilities that could be included in your course outline. • Report Out 84
How you “Invite” Students to Discuss Barriers/Needs
In pairs, think about the first day of class. Do you think you could say or do something that would make students with disabilities more comfortable “disclosing” and talking with you? Write a brief example.
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Documentation
Students identify disability and provide documentation. Meet with student and review all info, including history, report of experience, other sources (parent/teacher reports) Substantial limitation in a major life activity Diagnosis, Functional Limitations Impact in academic environment
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Confidentiality of Documentation
Disability related information is confidential. The DS office is charged with maintaining this confidentiality. Typically students will want to discuss accommodation needs directly with instructors, and often will share specific relevant information. However, it is the student’s choice whether or not to disclose information, such as the type of disability. 87
Determination of Accommodations
One of the ways that we meet our legal obligations and support students is through the accommodation process. Enable an “otherwise qualified” individual to have an equal opportunity to participate. Focus of all accommodations is to mitigate the effects of disability Designed on an individual basis, may vary from class to class for the same person, i.e. notetaker in one setting, lab assistant in another. 88
Proactive Considerations for Determining Appropriate Accommodations
Is the individual “Otherwise Qualified?”
Is the requested accommodation an “appropriate or reasonable academic adjustment?”
Would the accommodation require a substantial modification to an “essential” element of a program? 89
Other Accommodation Considerations
Reasonable accommodations should not result in the lowering of academic standards or alteration of the fundamental nature of a course or program.
Denying an accommodation must only be done after careful consideration by qualified professionals who are knowledgeable about disability and legal implications. It is never appropriate for faculty or staff to deny a requested accommodation without documented consultation. 90
Discussion: Are These Reasonable Accommodations?
A student with visual processing challenges requests to not have to write a required paper Student with a learning disability in writing asks to spell check quiz Student with a serious documented illness misses four weeks of your class Elevator malfunctions and as a result a student misses a midterm 91
Notification Letters
Outlines recommended accommodations May be individualized for a specific class or situation, or may be very generic and stable over time (i.e. extra time on all exams) Appropriate to have a private discussion with student about their needs and perceptions of any barriers in a particular course The student chooses how much personal information to share 92
Notification Activity
Imagine that Kevin comes to you at the beginning of the first class, hands you his notification letter and then goes back to his seat. OR Kevin sends you an email letting you know that he has a notification letter. In pairs, discuss how this process of notification could be improved 93
Typical Accommodations • • •
• •
• • •
Electronic Formats of Readings Class Relocation Tests and Quizzes
• • • •
Separate Testing Environment Additional Time On Exams Modified Exam Format Assistive Technology
Notetaking Sign Language Interpreters Flexible Attendance Policies Course Substitutions Decelerated program 94
Alternate Print Formats Most appropriate for students who are unable to or have difficulty with reading standard print (blindness; low vision; visual focusing/tracking; attention problems) Who have difficulty with reading speed and/or reading comprehension Most commonly electronic formats are prepared for access to speech output, enlarged font, and Braille formats. 95
Alternate Print Formats – What you can do
Order textbooks or course packets early Ask publishers if they have an accessible electronic version available before you commit to a particular text Identify the order of readings early, especially if using excerpts or partial textbooks. Be aware of access when posting online 96
Class Relocation Necessary in cases where a student is unable to physically get into the building or classroom The distance or terrain between classes is not able to be navigated, so they may need to be clustered closer together
97
Class Relocation and Mobility Challenges – what you can do
Be sensitive to the fact that some students may have difficulty traveling between classes quickly. If a class or class related activity is held in an alternate location, ie. Library, Museum, be aware of possible transportation challenges Be aware of the layout of the classroom and any need for adjustable desks, etc.. Report unsafe or hazardous conditions 98
Tests/Quizzes
When test accommodations cannot be provided by the instructor, students may request that Disability Services coordinate this process The student submits an online request AFTER the student has met with the instructor, and discussed accommodations and test parameters The request should be made early, but no later than 5 working days before the test. Disability Services works in collaboration with the Testing Center to facilitate this process. 99
Separate Testing Environment Most appropriate for students who have difficulty with: Visual distractions Any type of noise Extreme anxiety around performance Perceptions that others are watching them Need to verbalize questions or move around
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Testing EnvironmentsWhat you can do
Discuss accommodation needs privately with student Respond in a timely manner if tests are being proctored by Disability Services and information or confirmation is requested Minimize test scheduling changes whenever possible Consider whether you or your department has access to an appropriate quiet place for students to take exams/quizzes For larger classes, consider offering an alternate administration in a smaller room with a proctor, ie. GTF who can respond to questions 101
Additional Time on Exams Most appropriate for students who
Experience slower processing speed (i.e. ability at 97%, processing speed 3%) Experience memory/retention problems Need more time to write and organize thoughts Experience slow reading speed Need a scribe, reader, computer assisted, or modified format Experience panic or an inability to think through problems when under intense time pressure 102
Additional Time on Exams – What you can do
Some students prefer to take exams with their class, but need additional time. Consider allowing such a student to start the exam earlier, or move to an alternate location at the end of the exam for additional time. Consider designing tests so that there is additional time built in to the structure for all students 103
Modified Exam Format Most appropriate for students who have difficulty or are unable to demonstrate their knowledge in certain formats. For example: • A student may need a Braille version of an exam, a reader, or to utilize speech technology. • A student who is not able to accurately fill in the bubbles on a scantron sheet may need to mark off answers . • A student unable to write may need to respond to questions on a computer or to a scribe • For performance or studio based courses, an alternate format may be reasonable, i.e. videotaped presentation, oral in front of instructor instead of entire class 104
Modified Exam Format – What you can do
Consider the feasibility of offering more than one exam format for all students, ie. take home version or in class version. Prepare exams in Word with simple text (limited graphics). This format is the easiest for creating other formats, ie. Braille.
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Modifications to Course Requirements
In many cases small adjustments to existing course requirements may be appropriate. For example, a student who experiences panic attacks, or stutters, or has great difficulty with speech fluency, may be allowed to write a paper in place of giving a presentation. Alternatives to group work may be appropriate in some classes. 106
Discussion Question What
are some strategies to minimize the need for individualized test format accommodations or modifications to course requirements in your course? 107
Assistive Technology
Scanned materials to speech. Most commonly used by students who either are unable to read standard print (low vision, or blind) or have significant difficulty with reading speed or comprehension, and learn more effectively through auditory input Voice recognition Enlarged text Alternate formats Range of different inputs (puff switch, alternative keyboards, etc…)
. 108
Notetaking Most appropriate for students who have difficulty • Writing (fine motor movement, paralysis, pain in hand, fingers, or wrist) • Processing auditory information • With focus and concentration – trouble listening and writing at the same time • Hearing clearly enough to accurately take notes • Seeing visual material presented, or seeing well enough to write or type notes, switching eye focus from paper to screen or instructor
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Notetaking – What you can do
Consider making outlines and/or notes available to all students (rotate volunteers) Allow students to record lectures to supplement notes Allow students to use laptops Present new or technical vocabulary visually, use in context Prepare lecture outline and make available in advance Respond quickly to requests to help identify a volunteer notetaker
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Sign Language Interpreters
Provided when American Sign Language is the most effective form of communication Classes, meetings with instructors, study groups, any class related activity When requested, campus events and programs
111
Sign Language Interpreters – What you can do
Make sure that any video clips, movies, etc. are captioned, provide scripts when available Provide an additional copy of the textbook or other materials to the sign language interpreter Be aware that lighting can be a challenge especially in darker rooms 112
Flexible Attendance Policies
It may be appropriate to be more flexible with strict attendance criteria in cases where a student is experiencing significant medical challenges, and unavoidably misses classes, i.e. surgery, chronic illness flare up, manic episode, chemotherapy treatment, serious depression, or blood transfusions… 113
Activity
Sierra is going through chemotherapy treatments and misses 3 consecutive weeks of class.
• Working in pairs, think about one of your classes. • Describe two or three accommodations that might be reasonable for this student.
114
Decelerated Program
Some students need to complete their undergraduate or graduate degrees over a longer than typical period of time. A student may need to reduce their per term course load because of medical conditions. There can be financial aid and scholarship implications. 115
Course Substitutions May be considered for students who are unable to meet specific academic requirements due to the impact of a disability. These may occur at the departmental level with academic major requirements, or at the institutional level with general education.
For example, a student who is deaf may be allowed to meet reading competency requirements and have a cultural component substitute for an oral component of meeting the BA language requirement. A student with a severe math disability may be allowed to substitute computer based, or logic courses. 116
Many Accommodations Occur Outside of Classroom/Lab Settings
Housing Recreational Programs/events Student Union Libraries Museums Student Employment Tutoring/Support Programs 117
Scenario Activity
Sarah contacts you by email to report that she has just been released from two days in the hospital due to “stress”, and has been unable to attend class for the past 5 days. She has a midterm exam tomorrow. How might you respond, what other information would you want to have? What would you do?
118
Scenario Considerations
Separate the immediate issue of the exam tomorrow from the medical situation that may or may not be an ongoing concern.
119
What if you found out that: •
•
•
She is a freshman who just broke up with her boyfriend of 2 years OR She has Bipolar Disorder and stopped taking her medications last week OR She is a returning veteran and a tire blow out (like a bomb blast) on the freeway triggered a full panic attack – she felt safer at the VA hospital 120
Final Activity
If you wanted to tell other faculty members in your department two important things about accommodating students with disabilities what would they be? Please bring a syllabus tomorrow
121
Day 3: Practice - Agenda
Universal Design – an Overview Adaptive Technology Center
• Creating an Accessible PDF and Syllabus •
Considerations Demonstration of Kurzweil 3000
Universal Design and Blackboard Universal Design: Designing, Delivering and Evaluating Instruction 122
Day 3: Practice Today we want to focus on Instruction. In doing so, we want to spend time thinking about the following: Designing Instruction—Syllabi, Course Planning— continuation of yesterday afternoon Delivering Instruction-Teaching strategies Evaluating Students
Rather than thinking about these issues as pertaining ONLY to students with disabilities, we want to think about strategies that are good for students with disabilities but also good for all students.
123
Universal Design: An Overview
What is Universal Design?
• • •
The philosophy comes from the disciplines of engineering and urban planning based upon the premise of universal access for all individuals. In terms of developing and building a community, the core value would be to permit the optimal accessibility for all individuals without having to make special accommodations by the nature of the pre-planned design. The following factors would be considered: Safety, engineering options, environmental issues, aesthetics, and cost (North Carolina Center for Universal Design). 124
What’s UD’s Connection to Education and the UO?
Principles of UD are now being incorporated within the educational continuum.
Why? With such student diversity, using a UD preplanned approach will provide access to learning to a greater number of students and will potentially reduce the need for individual accommodations.
A pre-planned UD approach to learning and instruction will benefit both the student and the professor/instructor. 125
Universal Design for Learning and Instruction Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Developed by Center for Applied Technology (CAST). UDL is a student-focused method that provides strategies and advocacy skills to students to help improve their access and understanding of the course material. Universal Design for Instruction (UDI): Developed by researchers from University of Connecticut. UDI is an approach to college instruction that anticipates diversity of learners and provides a framework for university faculty to incorporate inclusive strategies into their teaching. Websites: CAST:
126
Examples of UDI
Planning for Instruction • Physical Characteristics of Class Room Setting • Syllabi Delivery: Instruction & Curriculum: • Interaction • Material/Information Delivery • Informational Resources and technology • Environment: Class Climate Evaluating Instruction: Assessment: • Feedback Mechanisms • Clear Communication and Expectations • Assessment Administration and Rubrics
127
Adaptive Technology Center James Bailey, Adaptive Technology Access Adviser 140 Knight Library 1299 University of Oregon Eugene, OR 97403-1299 541-346-1076
[email protected]
128
Adaptive Technology Center – Purpose
Support adaptive technology across campus
Support students using adaptive technology
Provide alt-text conversion to students
Advise on accessible electronic documents
Advise on accessible web
129
Alternative Texts
A very critical area for student success
Required by students who are blind or lowvision
Required by students with reading LD
Faculty have great impact on this area
130
Alternative Texts - 2
Texts that can be read by assistive technology
Paper text – requires conversion
Electronic texts – may be accessible
131
What is an Accessible Alternative Text?
Braille
Large print
Electronic files > text files – audio files
132
Focus On: Accessible PDF Files
133
Rationale
PDF is the most common document file on Moodle or Blackboard
May be structured for accessibility
This helps students with low vision, blindness and reading learning disabilities 134
Tools
MS Word
Acrobat Pro
135
Types of PDF Files
Picture only
Searchable text
Tagged
136
Ways to Create PDF Files
Scan a document into PDF the least accessible product
Convert from a “picture” file similar to a scanned document
Create from word processing file more accessible 137
Examples of Poor PDF files
Very poor initial copy
Poor copy and a marked original
138
Poor Scanning Example – One
139
Poor Scanning Example – Two
140
Identifying a Picture Only PDF
141
Identifying an Editable PDF
142
The Select Button
143
Converting image-only to text
Convert within Acrobat pro
144
Reading converted text
Recheck with select and try to read it
145
Creating an Accessible PDF with MS Word
Using correct document structure in Word makes for a very accessible PDF.
It essentially takes no more time than ignoring document structure.
146
Sample Syllabus
147
Sample Syllabus
Columns Headers Table
148
Sample Syllabus – page two
Table Headers Image
149
Exercises 2. Creating PDF from MS word Software
MS Office 2000 (or later) on Windows platform Adobe Acrobat 5.x, 6.x, 7.x, or 8 Office 2007 requires Acrobat 8.1 (may also use Save as PDF plug-in from Microsoft)
150
Creating PDF from MS word Sample Workflow
Create your content in MS Word Use "Styles" to provide document structure and modify content presentation Use the Column tool in MS Word to display multicolumn layout Add appropriate descriptions for any images 151
Creating PDF from MS word headers Use “Headers” instead of just “Bold”
152
153
Creating PDF from MS word – columns Use “Columns” instead of just “tabs”
154
155
Note Ruler
156
Creating PDF from MS word - tables
Use headers in tables
Expand abbreviations i.e. Tuesday instead of Tue
157
158
Exercises 2. Creating PDF from MS word images
Use alternative text descriptions
159
160
Creating PDF from MS word conversion
161
Check Reading Order – One
162
Check Reading Order – Two
163
Summary – Accessible PDF
Start with clean well copied original matter Create text-based or editable text Create new documents in Word Use header styles rather than BOLD Create true columns Put in Table headers Use alt-text for images 164
Demonstration of Kurzweil 3000
165
UNIVERSAL DESIGN & BLACKBOARD
Robert Voelker-Morris Teaching Effectiveness Program (TEP) Teaching and Learning Center 68 PLC (The Teaching and Learning Center) 541-346-1934
[email protected] 166
Blackboard
Create File Name Conventions Provide File Extensions Construct Navigational Consistency Designate Essential Content Provide Support Resources Consider Multiple Media Types
167
I. Planning for Instruction Designing Your Course:
• •
Working in groups, create a list of important issues to consider when designing your course. These issues should be relevant to students with disabilities but might also be important for all learners. Try to incorporate issues into your own course planning (examples, list of assignments, choices, timing of reading, strategies for instruction, calendar of topics, due dates, homework, assessment, grading options, etc.)
168
II. Delivering Instruction Instructional Techniques •
•
Multi-sensory or multi-format instructional approaches (Visual, verbal, auditory, practice/hands on) • Auditory output redundant with info on visual displays • Visual output redundant with auditory displays • Opportunities for group work to verbalize and apply understanding Challenge!! • Balancing the need to cover a lot of content while delivering it in a variety of instructional formats! 169
Delivering Instruction Instructional Techniques continued
Grouping Strategies (Peer-tutoring, Cooperative learning).
• The importance of clearly defined roles • Individual & Group Accountability • Can be implemented for projects or classroom activities
170
Delivering Instruction
Individually, think of a commonly taught lesson/ activity in your area. Write down the topic and the typical approach you use to deliver instruction. Working in pairs, discuss each approach and generate a list of strategies that might enhance the instruction for students with disabilities AND all students--REPORT 171
III. Evaluating Students/ Assessment
Providing options and choice Rubrics Curriculum-based Assessment
172
Providing Options & Choice
Different assessments for different content throughout the course. Choice of assessment using alternatives for each content area (multiple choice, or essay). Providing flexibility in time to complete assessments (design a one-hour assessment but allow two hours for completion). Issue: Do you lose anything when you offer these alternatives? 173
Rubrics
Example
Why? • Specify performance expectations • Provide examples of expectations
174
Rubrics Excellent. Is organized into sections, separated by dividers, and contains four sections (Developing Relationships with Families, Classroom Management, Social & Emotional Learning, Academics). Each section meets all criteria provided in the requirements. Each strategy is completed by the due date. Course activities and readings are integrated into each entry. Each strategy is organized, easy to follow, and at least 3 to 5 pages long. Strategies are easily accessible, clear, easy to understand, and follow a personal theme. Average. Is organized into sections, separated by dividers, and contains four sections (Classroom Management, Social & Emotional Learning, Developing Relationships with Families, Academics). Each outline is completed by the due date. Most outlines meet all criteria outlined in the requirements section but some do not. Some outlines are not completed by the due date. Course readings are integrated into most but not all entries. Most entries are organized, easy to follow, and at least 3 to 5 pages long but some do not meet these criteria. Most strategies are easily accessible, clear, easy to understand, and follow a personal theme but some do not meet these criteria. Below Average. Is organized into sections, separated by dividers, and contains four sections (Classroom Management, Social & Emotional Learning, Developing Relationships with Families, Academics). Some (one or more) outlines are not completed by the assigned reading date. Most (3 or 4) entries do not meet all criteria outlined in the requirements section. Most outlines are not completed by the due date. Course readings are not integrated into most of the entries. Most entries are not organized, easy to follow, and at least 3 to 5 pages long. Most strategies are not easily accessible, clear, easy to understand, and do not follow a personal theme. Unacceptable. Is not organized into sections, and/or separated by dividers, and/or contains less than four strategies. Some entries are not typed and/or spell checked. NOTE: Some = one or more, Most = more than half.
175
Benefits of Rubrics
Specify performance expectations Predictability
176
Curriculum-based Assessment
Instructional Assumptions of Traditional Assessment • All learners begin in same place • All learners gain equal access to information presented • Comparison to a criterion, or peers, is what matters Curriculum-Based Assessment • What is it? • Benefits • Example 177
100 90
Student Student Student Student Student Student Student Student Student Student Student
80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Test 1
Test 2
Test 3
Test 4
178
Assessment Activity Working in pairs, discuss What types of assessments you use? Select one assessment you use.
• Based on our discussion, could your •
assessment be modified in some way to be more supportive of all students, including students with disabilities? Would this modification compromise the integrity of the assessment in any way? 179
Day 4: Agenda Review of Faculty & Student Survey Exploring resources and training materials Developing personal training and outreach goals
180
Advocacy
Our model is designed to enhance the university culture by
• Providing specific training to approximately 120 faculty and over three years.
• Asking these “trainees” (YOU) to go out and provide information to other faculty and staff in their own departments.
• Through other print and web-based resources 181
Allison Lombardi
Student & Faculty Surveys Overview of survey findings Faculty & Student
182
Accommodations
Relevant Subscales: Faculty: 1.Willingness to provide and perceived fairness of accommodations 2.Knowledge of Disability Law Student: 1.Student reported use of accommodations 2.Student feelings of stigmatization around requesting and use of accommodations from faculty Scale: Ranges from 1 = Strongly disagree to 6 = Strongly agree
6.00
5.09 5.00
4.00 Faculty Willingness
3.62
Faculty Knowledge of Disability Law
3.31
Student use of Student stigma
3.00
1.89
2.00
1.00
Accommodations
183
Campus Resources
Relevant Subscales: Faculty: 1.Perception of and satisfaction with Disability Services
Student: 1.Perception of and satisfaction with Disability Services 2.Perception of campus climate Scale: Ranges from 1 = Strongly disagree to 6 = Strongly agree
6.00
5.00 4.59 4.24
4.18
4.00 Faculty perception of Disability Services Students perception of Disability Services Students perception of campus climate
3.00
2.00
1.00 Campus Resources
184
Inclusive Instruction
Relevant Subscales: Faculty: 1.Willingness to make adjustments to course assignments and requirements 2.Perceived accessibility of course materials Student: 1.Perception of faculty teaching practices
6.00
5.00
4.81
3.86 4.00
3.54
Faculty Course/Assignment Adjustments Faculty Accessibility of Course Materials Student Perceptions of Teaching Practices
3.00
Scale: Ranges from 1 = Strongly disagree to 6 = Strongly agree
2.00
1.00 Inclusive Instruction
185
Minimizing Barriers
Relevant Subscales: Faculty: 1.Willingness to minimize instructional barriers
6.00
5.00
Student: 1.Perceptions of faculty attempts to minimize instructional barriers
4.30 3.99
4.00
Faculty Student
Scale: Ranges from 1 = Strongly disagree to 6 = Strongly agree
3.00
2.00
1.00 Minimizing Barriers
186
Other Student Factors
Relevant Subscales: 6.00
Student: 1. Self efficacy and Advocacy 2. Family Support 3. Peer Support
5.00
4.34
4.44
4.00
Scale: Ranges from 1 = Strongly disagree to 6 = Strongly agree
3.73 Self efficacy and Advocacy
Family Support Peer Support 3.00
2.00
1.00 Student Factors
187
Website
http://ds.uoregon.edu/ Website Overview of Current site
188
Binders & Blackboard Sites
All training materials are included in your binders We are also including electronic copies of these materials on your blackboard site and flashdrive
189
Strategies for Providing Information Continued……
Working in small groups plan and outline a training module for other members of your department. Each group do different time frame (15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour). • What type of information should you provide? • What are good venues to provide the information? • What materials would assist you in delivering the information? • REPORT OUT 190
Strategies for Providing Information Continued……
Now think about new faculty who are added each year (and adjunct during the year). Generate some ideas about strategies that could be used to provide new members with information. Create a list of strategies--REPORT OUT Next, develop a page of guidelines to give to new members of your dept. to help them work with students with disabilities--REPORT OUT 191
Reflection Activity
List the top three challenges you personally feel you will face in providing information to other members of your department. Rank order these challenges 1, 2, 3 with one being the most challenging. How will you address the challenges?
192
Institutional Change
Continue in groups Based on everything we’ve talked about develop a list of important issues that should be considered by the university as a whole. REPORT OUT 193
Institutional Cont.
Continue working in groups. What strategies/activities could be implemented to affect broad institutional change?
•
REPORT OUT
Each group choose and discuss ONE issue and develop a strategy for initiating the process.
•
REPORT OUT 194
Past Participant Update
Bill Ryan, School of Journalism
Incorporated disability awareness and related projects into Winter term course
195
Developing Goals
What we want to think about now is one or two goals that you want to accomplish in the upcoming year. Structure for taking this week back home and putting into practice. Linking good intention with effective action
196
Goal Setting Activity Goals could potentially fit a number of categories—think of at least one unit goal. Personal Development Goals Unit Development Goals - Interpersonal Unit Development Goals - Material Institutional/Culture Change Goals
197
SMART Goal Setting
Specific-clear focus, open-ended OK Meritorious-valuable, worth doing well Achievable-imagine accomplishment Realistic-tailored to your situation Terrific-others applaud, especially students with disabilities
198
Examples of SMART Goals
To present selected materials from EXCEL workshop to faculty in the Psychology Department To improve the retention of students with disabilities majoring in Art History To strengthen the working relationships between Disability Services and three faculty in the History Department 199
Objectives
Getting more specific than goals. What are the main steps to take to achieve a goal?
Goal: To present selected materials from EXCEL workshop to faculty in the Psychology Department -Ob1: Ask dept. chair for 15 minutes of time during next depart. meeting. -Ob2: Develop 15 minute presentation on most relevant accommodation issues. -Ob3: Deliver presentation to faculty and staff
200
Actions
Possible Issues • Type of training you would like to initiate (within unit and/or institutional) • Content included • How and where implemented • By when will it be implemented • Results you would like to see • Resources/Supports you will need 201
THE END!!!!!
Next steps? Final workshop evaluation Stipend Request Form Certificates of Appreciation
THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING!!! 202
