Barbara Islas

Students in post-secondary education may or may not be diagnosed with a learning disability. As educators, we can be alert to some of the signs that the student may have a disability. Although educators are not obligated to design a special plan for the students with a learning disability, it is important to find ways to assist the student/s by discovering why the student is having difficulties. Students may be referred to a success coach within the school and may be eligible for accommodations. 

I had a student who clearly displayed all the criteria for ADHD. I recommended the student… >>>

There are many types of learning disabilities ranging from reading to writing and solving math problems. People do not outgrow disabilities. However, they can learn to adapt.

It is difficult to remember students' names. By having them make a trifold "tent" to write their names on and post this on their desk the first day of class, it helps me to remember who each student is. We also use popsicle sticks with their name on each stick. When we want to call on a student to answer a question, pick out a popsicle stick and call out the name. 

In nursing, we learn the first step to treatment is to assess. In the teaching realm, we also must assess first prior to responding. This is done by listening and looking for cues through body language. Once we have allowed the student to vent, we can utilize therapeutic communication by reflecting back what we think the student has said prior to responding.

Learning their names is important. On the first day of class, use colored paper to have them create a trifold "tent" to put their name on with a sharpie. This helps me to know who they are. Students that are less likely to answer questions may fear they will answer wrong. We use individual white boards for them to write the answer to the questions on. Positive reinforcement will boost their confidence level. 

Being a role model and mentor is vital to the classroom. This can also be implemented outside of the classroom, as well. I love to sit or walk through the common area and converse with the students. This can help to build that bond with the students. 

Part of developing high emotional intelligence comes from being aware of my own emotions and developing self-control when it comes to handling conflict. It also requires an awareness of other's emotions, as well. This can be demonstrated by displaying empathy towards others. Emotional intelligence also means that we manage our emotions by not loosing our temper but dealing with conflict early on with taking appropriate action before it gets out of control. We need to be self-aware of the progression of our feelings so before loosing control. 

Soft skills are important in the workplace. This involves people skills and workplace behavior. People skills include good communication and listening skills, providing feedback, maintaining a positive attitude, being polite and having integrity. The most important skills include common sense and dependability. Also important are utilizing the chain of command and adapting to changes. 

When we model these behaviors to students, they are more likely to reciprocate. If we do not demonstrate these professional behaviors, they will be more apt to display disrespectful behaviors, as well.

Use a variety of methods for delivering content. Begin by communicating the objectives for the content on that day. Let students know what is being covered. Use 10-15 minutes of lecture. Lectures can be delivered in a variety of manners. Storytelling, case studies, and straight lecture are just a few delivery types. After completing a mini-lecture, break up the class to apply the content. This might include a hands-on demonstration and activity. It might be that the students solve a problem as a group. If there are several steps students need to follow, break it down to 5-8 steps.