Examples of Classroom Accommodations

Teaching Diverse Learners Environmental Adaptations
Seat the student so that s/he can see the material presented visually and is away from visual and/or auditory distractions
Consider whether the student needs to move around during class
Provide breaks for long periods of instruction
Allow visual aids to remain posted
Face a student with a hearing impairment when speaking

Teaching Diverse Learners Presentation Adaptations
Use multi-sensory approaches including handouts, overhead transparencies, graphic organizers
Vary class instruction (lecture, discussion, student presentations, AV, etc.)
Highlight important information
Use learning strategies and mnemonics when available
Allow students to share notes
Provide manipulative objects or displays when teaching abstract concepts
Provide study guides
Allow students to audiotape classes
Choose texts and other printed material that are well formatted and include visual information

Teaching Diverse Learners Expression Adaptations
Allow various methods of expressing knowledge (Avoid the "all the eggs in one basket" syndrome)
Utilize authentic assessment whenever possible
Provide for a variety of evaluative assignments
Allow students quiet areas to take the exam
Allow extra time for processing answers
Format exam with a limited number of questions per page, etc.
Provide all assignments at the beginning of a semester; space them out
Provide the grading rubric whenever possible
Provide models of correct assignments
Allow students to hand in drafts

Teaching Diverse Learners Feedback Adaptations
Provide supportive feedback frequently
Identify positive aspects of work
Provide specific constructive feedback on error patterns
Encourage students to use office hours
Encourage students to seek help from peers, the supplemental lab instructors, tutors, etc
Encourage students to choose schedule wisely
Encourage students to get into learning teams

From presentation by Howard Muscott, Ed.D. 1/15/96

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