Students with learning Disabilities
Students with learning Disabilities seem to a harder time with reading comprehension. As instructors we need to support and give them the help they need to be successful. Giving extra time on an exam or creating a quiet enviroment can help. Students are of average and above integence. We also have to remember that they may have reading problems such as Dyslexia.
Reading and writing are the most common issues I see.
Writing professional work is the bigger challenge. Objectivity and documentation is a challenge for many. Personal limitations are reflected in their assignments.
I see a growing lack of reading comprehension skills and problem solving abilities.
If students can't answer a homework question correctly, how will they be able to pass an exam.
I generally find that if they have e-books they search key words in the question and cut and paste an answer without reading it to see if they are answering the question. Or they scan the chapter for the key works and the first time they see the words, they copy that information without really comprehending the question
That problem seems to be universal - what are the best ways to embed critical thinking skills in online courses?
Teaching a Comp 1 course, I include following assignment directions in my grading rubric because so many students do not seem to have the ability or the discipline to read and follow directions. I think universities, online or not, should assess reading skills and provide a remedial reading course where needed.
