The general suggestions provided below are meant to assist students with disabilities in the classroom. However, these strategies, according to the principles of Universal Design, may by extension, benefit all students in the classroom.
- Provide students with a detailed course syllabus. Make it available before classes begin, if possible. Clearly spell out expectations (grading, material to be covered, due dates) at the start of the course. This is very helpful for disabled students who need time to arrange support services. (recorded textbooks, enlarged print, interpreter services, etc).
- Include in the syllabus a statement that your class accommodates students with disabilities and invite students to meet with you early in the semester to discuss their needs.
- Provide clear copies of articles posted on MyLMU Connect (Blackboard). This will help to benefit students who need to use screen reader programs to access the information.
- Select DVDs or films that have closed captioning. This is very helpful for students enrolled in your class who may be Deaf or hard of hearing.
- Encourage students to use campus support services (such as tutoring and workshops) available through the Academic Resource Center (ARC) located on the second floor or Daum Hall.
To learn more about universal design and advising/teaching students with disabilities, please visit the University of Washington's Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology (DO-IT) Center. Here you will find a number of helpful brochures available for free download including such topics as: