From Disability to Diversity: College Success for Students with Learning Disabilities, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder

by Lynne C. Shea, Linda Hecker, Adam R. Lalor

Colleges and universities are seeing increasing numbers of students with a range of disabilities enrolling in postsecondary education. Many of these disabilities are invisible and, despite their potential for negative impact on students’ academic and social adjustment, some students will choose not to identify as having a disability or request support.

Approaching disability from the perspective of difference, the authors of this new volume offer guidance on creating more inclusive learning environments on campus so that all students—whether or not they have a recognized disability—have the opportunity to succeed. Strategies for supporting students with specific learning disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder or who display learning and behavioral characteristics associated with these profiles are described. A valuable resource for instructors, advisors, academic support personnel, and others who work directly with college students.

Genres: Teaching

135 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 25, 2019

Reviews

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shea et al. provide a useful set of ideas to consider for effectively teaching neurodivergent students (autistic students and those with ADHD and learning disabilities). Some of their suggestions (e.g., using principles of Universal Design for learning) are just good teaching – although many faculty still need to be reminded of such. Other things (e.g., removing barriers, creating neurodivergent-friendly universities inside and outside the classroom, offering coaching services) may be more novel. And, to be fair, during my book club's discussions (with faculty from multiple campuses), we easily generated examples of faculty who are resistant to even basic accommodations (e.g., extended test-taking time for a student who'd broken her dominant hand).

I especially liked the first chapter, which discussed various models for conceptualizing disability (e.g., medical, rehabilitation, social, social justice, legal). Again, no surprises, but usefully summarized.

[Michelle]

Read for my work book club.