I found the section on comparing access to success to be very thought provoking. I think I have often found myself trying to find a solution that will guarantee success, rather than focusing on supplying equal access. I guess that would put me in the "over-accommodating" category.
Comment on Rebecca Erlinder's post: This is informative and imperative to know!
Interesting enough that an architect designed the Origins of Universal Design. In 1980, architect Ron mace patent (UD) to provide a concept toward the extent of possibilities for those that need them, making it possible for more immediate access to places and products.
It was really interesting to learn about Universal Design and how to use it with the people with disability.
We focus on equal access and the opportunity to participate fully at post-secondary institutions. Accommodations can be seen as a means, but not an actual end. This does not mean accommodations enhance success for students (even though we should hope they are successful).
I will begin to understand and take notice of universal design, in order to implement my course design to give better access to as many people as possible
It was helpful to larn that accommodations are only necessary to provide access, and not success. Often, prospective students adn their parents expect to recieve the same guarantee of success that they becase accustomed to in K-12 education. This distinciton is critical in determining what is a reasonable accommodation.
Student accommodation needs can be met more readily with a proactive mindset versus a reactive one. It's important to have the processes and policies in place to ensure we are meeting all student's learning needs.
Equal access or ease of access does not just apply to students but also to guests and parents on campus.
There are several ways to help students with disabilities, however, the student should know what accommodations are needed to help them succeed.
Closed captioning of videoes is giving access to a whole host of people, not only those who have a disability, and so it should be incorporated as much as possible.
As an instructor is important when providing accomondations that is an access not a success.
It was interesting to learn about architect Ron Mace who coined the term Universal Design (UD) and a barrier-free design to describe the concept of designing all products and the built environment to be aesthetic and usable to the greatest extent possible by everyone, regardless of their age, ability, or status in life.
as a general rule if you're thinking it costs too much or doesn't make sense, you're going down a slippery slope. It's a great way to self-check and re-evaluate the request being made. I also enjoyed the part about UD. It's not something I had thought much about before this session.
I learned about the UD (universal design) and I thought the closed caption (cc) was a good example. My daughter who has Asperger's prefers the CC on movies, whereas, my granddaughter (ADHD) finds it very distracting. Having had a special ed credential for awhile, it is amazing the "new" things I am listening by watching these videos.
Comment on Sheila Heinert's post: I agree with you, Sheila, to learn what is needed prior is helpful rather than too late.
Accommodations and unfair advantages.... makes sense.
Reasonable accommodations are fair for all.
Providing accommodation to students with disabilities is very helpful not only for providing access but also for promoting student success.
Awareness is everything. The institution cannot provide the best services without knowing about the disability.
