How can you help individuals with learning disabilities succeed in college and beyond?

As a former teacher of the deaf and someone who has worked with student with IEPs and 504 plans, I will tell you I DO NOT LIKE the term “learning disability” I find more times than not a student with that label is not “unable to learn” they just don’t learn the way schools teach. For me the first thing I would do is hire a coach for executive function skills and have them help you get organized. Everyone does better with structure and a plan. Then I would see what the school can offer and take advantage of any and all that could help you be successful. Every student is entitled to resources that will help them be successful. But each students needs aren’t the same so ????identify what you need support with ????advocate for it ??

One thing I found helpful is to know your rights. Knowing what you're entitled to as a student with a disability enhances your college and university experience. Get help from learning support. Extra tutorials after school. Create flashcards. It helps improve your memory. Create a study guide. It gives you a plan and structure essays. This helps you to maximise your marks and the grade bands. Proofread your work. Don't cram. Develop good study skills and habits. Special education has it's place in society but special qualifications aren't always recognised in mainstream colleges and universities. Reasonable adjustments are a must for a successful time in college and university. Request extra time for exams. Assistive technology also works.

Speaking from experience of a parent, getting a college to recognise their responsibility under the EQA can be challenging. Support to get through the “system” is definitely needed, especially for a neurodivergent student already overwhelmed. A student advocate further along on a course would be a great way forward.

The first thing is to understand the nature of the disability and how it affects the person as an individual. Two people can have the same disability and it will have a unique impact on each person. As the parent of an Autistic child, it is vital to understand the things that can impede the person so that such obstacles can be removed or the impediment overcome. It is also important to understand the type of environment the individual needs to be comfortable so they can be successful. Once these vital elements are identified, you can successfully advocate for these things in the learning or professional environment so the individual can be productive.

I DO NOT LIKE THIS TERM at ALL. If someone is LEARNING DISABLED, they would not make it to college. Colleges will not have accommodations for someone who is learning disabled. As in UNABLE to learn. How about “learning challenges” “different learning style than traditionally taught in public school” I was a teacher of the deaf and the students were all labelled like this because in order to get services they have to call it something but we have to do better for students who learn in a different way. I would highly suggest a college coach since executive function is usually the area that will have the most affect on keeping up. They will be there for you more than the college will. Understand where you need support and get it! ????

Individuals with learning disabilities can face unique challenges in college, but with the right support and strategies, they can succeed and reach their full potential. Know your rights: Make sure you understand your rights and how to request accommodations. Develop your skills: There are many strategies and techniques that can help individuals with learning disabilities succeed in college. Explore your strengths: Individuals with learning disabilities often have unique strengths that can help them succeed in college. Remember, you are not alone. There are many people who want to help you succeed in college. With the right support and strategies, you can reach your full potential.

Sou uma pessoa diagnosticada com dislexia, imperatividade e TDAH. A desmotiva??o era um sentimento constante e conhecido. Mas investir em autoconhecimento me ajudou a descobrir meus pontos fortes e usá-los a meu favor. Descobrir o que se ama e trabalhar nisso é algo libertador e confortante. Quando se tem bem definido o propósito e a miss?o de vida, tudo fica mais fácil., Encontrar profissionais qualificados para ajudar na jornada faz total diferen?a.

I have found that the diagnosis is more limiting than the “disability” (again I do NOT like this word) since learning styles are different and schools aren’t flexible with how they teach so many get “diagnosed” with a “disability” and in the workforce they disappear because there is more opportunity to find the right workplace than the right education space. There is a place for everyone in the workforce and limited places in the public education system. There is a fantastic career for everyone! ????believe in your abilities more than “disabilities” ????find others who roll like you do ????know that the biggest limitations will come from you ??

Asking for help may not always be easy, but finding someone who you connect with and feel comfortable enough to discuss your needs can be extremely helpful. They may be able to guide you in explaining the steps you need to take to receive support, as well as assist you in finding support groups, and be there to support you through your academic journey. My campus offers a variety of support groups and mental health services, a place where students support one another as well as staff members who truly care for you and your future. You are not alone, help is available to anyone who needs it.

I have never heard of a company giving someone flexible hours because of a learning disability. I have seen companies providing extended time in assessments but not much more than that. To expect that would be unrealistic and limiting in opportunities. I say this again, the term learning disabilities is limiting and most who learn visually and with smaller groups are quickly labeled with a disability and only because the schools aren’t set up to teach in a more modified way. I do think many with focusing challenges work best in a quiet environment and that would be something where a remote or hybrid role would satisfy their needs. Just remember, if you graduated college then you aren’t learning disabled. You are very able. ??

I needed to reiterate this because it’s important. A learning disability implies someone is disabled and cannot learn. For most people who have this label it is simply not true. It is a way for schools to label someone so they can receive accommodations and services in k-12.. But in college that goes away and learning how to self manage your learning style is what is best for the next leg of their learning in their job. We all need support. We all learn in our own way and we all have a job that is right for us. Your biggest limitations are the ones you let others-or you yourself-put on you! ??