Understanding the definition of, and accommodations for disabilities continues to evolve. It is our duty as Higher Ed administrators to keep abreast of these developments and ensure that our faculty, staff and institutions are upholding the law and effectively supporting students who are covered under this legislation.
I have a background in Special Education. A lot of this information was review which I am greatful for having the opportunity to review. The most information I have learned is the difference between K-12 and Higher education. Some of the rules policies and procedures apply to both areas however there are a few things that are different. Being an educator who has experienced both sides, this was very informative information.
I learned the two federal laws relating to people with disabilities. I was happy to see that it was explained that disabilities can include hidden disabilities, such as ADHD and emotional disorders. Also, accommodations do equalize the access to success.
This module defined the 504 Act vs. ADA with both of these falling under civil rights protection acts. I found that the information about the three different definitions associated with a disability was helpful: those that have a disability, thoe who have a history/record of a disability, and those who are perceived as having a disability. I think that the key takeaway is that the inent of these acts is to help to ensure that all students receive an equal opportunity; however, it should not be assumed that students are automatically entitled to receiving an accommodation according to what is considered as a, "reasonable accommodation," vs, "non-reasonable."
I have learned the differences in disabilities, and the accomodations that should be offered in this module.
Medical Accomdations are so needed and should be respected also is very important in reviewing this policies are very important.
Everyone deserves a chance period. If accomodations are needed for a disability they need to be fairly provided.
I have learned what is and what is not considered a needed accomodation. I learned how all students should and will be supported regardless of their disability. I am glad these laws and measures are in place to ensure that all students achieve success.
Under the ADA, the disability must be constant to impair a major activity in one’s life. Momentary conditions are not regarded as disabilities. I want to make sure we implement reasonable accommodation for all students who need support and foster a warm and effective learning environment.
All instutions of higher learning receiving federal grants must comply with requirements to accomadate students with disabilities.
Everyoone has the right to "Equal Opportunities"
Students with disabilities have the right to equal access to educational opportunities. They only have a right to an accommodation if they would not receive equal access without the accommodation.
ADA accommodations are important rules that institutions have to abide by. All students are different, but ADA tries to meet disabled students where they are at and work with them to provide equal opportunity for all.
Really important to remember that the ADA does have stringent rules about architectural access, BUT IN THAT assures that people with disabilities have equal access to an opportunity if they cannot reach the place where the opportunity is offered.
Reply to Judith Seme, PhD, RN's post:I totally agree with you here Judith and as you said this disablity subject can be very complex and there are times when we as teacher can have difficult time to decide and how to identify a student with disability unless official documents have been submutted from a licensed physician.
As an instructor, I often get students with learning disability and school often provide them with reasonable accommodations including extra time for them to complete their homework, assignments, course project(s) and additional attempts for quizzes and exams.
FAIR AND JUST TREATMENT to ensure Equal Opportunity for all and any student with a disability. The institution is required to make "reasonable" accommodations in a "timely" manner. ADA of 1990 is one of the more important Civil Rights Law. It ensures that not only people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations but also are protected from being discriminated against.
There needs to be clear understanding regarding correct evaluation of what qualifys as a disability.
Accomodations to ensure equal access is an imperative function of a democratic structure. It may be complex at times for the institution, but without the accomodation, the person with a disability may not have a path forward.
Yes accommodations are the right thing to do, but not in all situations. This is a very fine line that needs to be walked and addresse. Because not all fields of education can except certain accommodations. And i hope we all take time to think about it in a sensitive manner, and look out for the well being of both parties in this situation.
