confidentiality
I am one that holds confidentiality very high in expectations of individuals who work with individuals with disabilities. I think we need to be sure that everyone remembers that the only people who need to know what disability the individual has is those who have a right to know. I have had several students ask me "what is wrong with so and so" My answer is usually "that is not for me to discuss and this is a great time for you to practice confidentiality and try not to ask " I also make sure in the begining of every class I teach to make the statement that what is fair does not mean everyone gets the same. Instead what is fair is everyone gets what they need. I use the example that if fair meant everyone gets the same then nobody can wear glasses because that isn't fair that the others don't have them or everybody needs to wear glasses. That usually gets the point across.
Valaire,
I like your example... but be careful with your wording. You said, "the only people who need to know...those who have a right to know." I would suggest that no one has a RIGHT to know. The only rights granted under Federal law are the rights to privacy for the individual. There ARE folks that have a need to know, in order to provide appropriate support. You would be one of those! GRIN
Dr. Jane Jarrow
thank you and your exactally right. I was thinking more in lines of the instructors that need to know accomodations for students with disabilities however, other students just curious asking would NOT be appropriate.
Valaire,
I can't argue with that!!!
Dr. Jane Jarrow
I feel that confidentiality is key so you can earn the students trust and respect. I feel that the information should shared only on a need to know basis such as other instructors.
Andrew,
I agree. FERPA was not only created to protect student records from outside entities, but from those who don't have an educational interest in providing services. Confidentiality is important. I'm not sure that I would want my Financial Aide Advisor knowing about my disability-why would he/she need to know that info unless it directly impacts my ability to sign a legal document?
Sarah Smoger
I agree that confidentiality should be used as to which people need to know if a student has a disability. If the person that has the disability wants others to know, then they can decide if they want to divulge the information. Otherwise no one needs to know unless that information can be used to the accomdations needed for that disability.
