One strategy that has been useful for me is what is mentioned in the module, discussing learning strategies with the student. This empowers them and also helps me to be able to impart the information in a way they will understand.
Some methods that have been successful for me in working with students with learning disabilities is providng one-to-one instruction and tutoring outside of scheduled class time and giving tests separate from the rest of the class decreases test anxiety and improves test scores.
Start by asking the student what their needs are and finding out what strategies have worked best for them in the past.
Taking the extra time needed to help them to progress and giving them the verbal/written praises to encourage such progress. Analyzing constantly to see what is working and what is not.
I am going to try the box method next time I give a test. I think based on the module that it will really help the students stay focused on one question at a time.
longer time, more of a one on one aproach, and maybe reading a question back to them to use other senses
Christa,
these are all great strategies to help the learners who are struggling in our classes.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I definately think that using a variety of instuctional techiques is one of the most valuable not just for students with learning disabilities but for all students in the classroom.
I gave my student extra time for tests and quizzes. The student needed to have all the teaching materials in an e format.
I give the quicker students projects to do in class while the slower students catch up. This takes the pressure of the slower students.
The best thing to do is talk with the student and ask him or her what has helped in the past.
As many of our students are adults they have a history of knowing what kind of strategies will work for them.
Often what helps is being more patient and offering more time to the student.
On the first day of class I let students know that if they have any learning disabilities or need any accommodations they need to please come talk to me so that I can help them. I believe open communication is the key to helping students with learning disabilities.
Heather,
this is a great idea as it shows the students that you really do want to help them & encourage them to speak with you.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I think providing more instructional support in the form of more coaching/ tutoring t understand the concepts is one method. Second support is providing extra time for a test. I have a student in my class who did not disclose earlier that she has learning disability and I think is confused about her condition. She says she had hard time transferring answers on a scan-tran and was confused and kept transferring wrong choices, so in order to accommodate her, I had her pick choices on the exam itself.
First of all, covering material a second time in small group settings helps me to recognize those with possible learning disabilities. They are usually frantically trying to write down everything I say or are flipping pages without intent as they try make some sort of connection with what we, as a group, are talking about and what is in the notes and/or text. If I am successful in recognizing such students or they are self-advocating (which is a huge help) I will sit with them and help them piece together the portions of the lecture or homework they are having trouble comprehending. Sometimes it is as easy as restating the information in different terms or contexts.
Always allowing more time for students when they need it. Also make it comfortable for them to come to you when they feel they need more time.
Showing direct interest in the student and giving extra time for submission of assignments have been useful A lot of patience and encouraging words is necessary in dealing with this category of students.
I have found that the students feel encouraged when the instructor takes time to talk to them and shows the willigness to help. That in itself is a motivator for the student.
I have a student that choose our college because we take the time to understand the learning disability of the learner. In cooperation with each other -- instructor/student -- we attempt to find a solution. Often, it is a matter of association: correlating what the student knows with the unknown.
Kola,
yes, demonstrating that care & concern is key to helping the students succeed.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
