Teaching Strategies for Students who are Mobility Impaired

This information is available to download in a word document - Strategies to help students who are Mobility Impaired.

"Inclusive Practices" enable students to attain their highest potential in a learning environment. This page informs academics about the strategies they can consider when meeting the learning needs of students with limited mobility.

	Strategies:
		Pre-Semester
		During Semester
		Alternative Assessment
		Assignments
		Examinations

Please feel free to contact our service for further information.

Pre-Semester

	Consult with the student about possible barriers and problems they may have, and consider their suggestions for solutions– the Disability Liaison Officer will be able to provide assistance.
	Ensure tutorials are held in rooms that can accommodate a wheelchair and extra personnel, and have accessible toileting facilities.
	Facilitate a barrier-free environment.
	Check that safety and emergency procedures are in place and all key parties are informed about their roles.

During semester

	Maintain communication with student on a regular basis and invite feedback.
	Stand or sit clear of a wheelchair as it is often considered a part of the person's body space. Where possible put yourself in a position to maintain level eye contact, that is, sit down and talk.
	Ask if assistance is required rather than assuming it is.
	Copies of lecture notes and overheads may be helpful to some students.
	Students may seek permission to tape record lectures.
	Notetakers and Participation Assistants may be allocated by the Disability Liaison Office.
	If classes are being relocated or cancelled, advise the student and the Disability Officer.

Alternative Assessment Strategies

Alternative Assessments should be negotiated early in the course with the student and the Disability Officer, who formally recommends “reasonable accommodations” that do not compromise the integrity of the course.

Assignments

	Discuss the requirements of the course with the student to identify possible problems and solutions.
	Students may experience great difficulty searching for and obtaining information from the library.
	Be prepared to vary the assessment task.
	Monitor student progress and be flexible with timelines.
	Class Participation
	Fluctuating and recently acquired disabilities may cause the student to be absent from class. Medical certificates are not required for each class as full records are held with the Disability Support Service.
	Students may be late attending classes due to mobility and access problems.
	Allow in-class written assignments to be completed out of class with the use of a scribe, or provide extra time.

Examinations

The Disability Liaison Officer will assess and recommend examination adjustments, which may include:

	Space to enable students to move freely without disrupting others.
	Additional time and rest breaks.
	A personal assistant to carry out manual tasks.
	Permission to eat, drink and take medication during exams may be necessary for some students.