My name is Jan and I am a sophomore working on a biology degree. I have Tourette's syndrome and a psychiatric disability. I am currently taking a biochemistry course that is a requirement for my major and meets in a large lecture hall.
Computer-Using Educators, Inc. (CUE), formerly the Technology in Education International Conference and Exposition (TechEd), employs the promising practice of including a presentation strand dedicated to the topic of technology and people with disabilities. Titles of talks in the strand have included:
Yes. The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) specifically states that an impairment that is episodic or in remission meets the definition of "disability" if it would substantially limit a major life activity when active.
According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Asperger's Disorder, also referred to as Asperger Syndrome, was a term previously used to describe one of the pervasive developmental disorders. The diagnosis of Asperger’s Disorder was removed from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) in 2013. Those previously diagnosed with Asperger’s Disorder are now included in the broader category of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Although some individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may find college overwhelming or too challenging, many students with autism do well in an academic environment, particularly if they have the opportunity to focus on areas of personal interest.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), also referred to as Autism, is a developmental disability characterized by impairments in social interactions and communication, as well as a pattern of repetitive or obsessive behaviors and interests. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe. There is no known cure for ASD, but interventions have been identified that can reduce behavioral symptoms and improve academic, employment, and social outcomes. The cause of ASD is not known; however, evidence suggests that both genetic factors and environmental triggers may play roles.
Disability-related issues can be easily integrated into many areas of study. The Center on Human Policy, Law, and Disability Studies (CHPLDS) website, contains a vast selection of materials and resources to help educators integrate disability studies into social studies, history, literature, and related subjects.
A student with a mental illness may have one or more of the following psychiatric diagnoses (American Psychiatric Association, 1994).
This is a mood disorder that can begin at any age. Major depression may be characterized by a depressed mood most of each day, a lack of pleasure in previously enjoyed activities, thoughts of suicide, insomnia, and consistent feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
You should assist students with disabilities as you would other students. It is their responsibility to disclose information about their disabilities and request accommodations. Some students do not require accommodations and/or choose not to disclose their disabilities. Other students may have invisible disabilities (such as learning disabilities or health impairments), which may be difficult or even impossible to recognize.