CIRT would like to congratulate Rebekah Dyer, AssistantProfessor in the College of Education, for her recent academic presentation atthe Center for Scholastic Inquiry in Atlanta, GA. Her presentation “TeachingStudents with Disabilities at the College Level” was widely well received. Manyof the conference attendees were from other universities throughout the U.S.and this topic sparked their interest as it seems to be a need/issue at theiruniversities as well. More about the content of her presentation follows.

 Students with disabilities are provided with support through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) through the age of 21.  For students with disabilities who want to on to post-secondary education the supports are less. There are some accommodations that can be provided through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), however, they are not as extensive.  How can colleges and universities support students with disabilities in successfully completing their degree? While the law may not provide comprehensive components for post-secondary education, universities and professors can be proactive in creating an environment that will allow students with disabilities to successfully complete a degree.  This can include policies and procedures, training for professors and additional resources such as tutoring. In addition, students with disabilities need to advocate for their needs by communicating with the university and their professors. Together, with university, professors and students working together, students with disabilities can be successful in colleges and universities.