WHAT ARE EFFECTIVE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR STUDENTS WITH MOBILITY IMPAIRMENTS?

The term "mobility impairment" refers to a broad range of disabilities that may cause students to rely upon assistive devices, such as wheelchairs, scooters, crutches, canes, or artificial limbs. Disabilities affecting mobility can result from spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, cerebral palsy, and other disabling conditions. Stairs, heavy doors, lack of elevators, and narrow walkways may present barriers. Many students with mobility impairments face problems, such as impaired eye-hand coordination, decreased writing ability due to weakness or paralysis, and decreased physical stamina. A student with mobility impairment may be unable to sit in one position for a sustained length of time. DSS may recommend the following accommodations:

• Allow alternative methods of recording answers to tests, such as typing or taping.
• Allow extended time to complete tests/assignments.
• Do not assume the student needs physical assistance; instead, ask the student.
• If the student is in a wheelchair, sit down, if possible, to speak to the student at eye level.
• If a student's speech is impaired, do not hesitate to ask him or her to repeat. Do not complete sentences or "fill in the blanks" for students.
• Adjustable tables, chairs, and lap trays may be helpful in the classroom.