Teaching Students with Disabilities
Chronic Health Disabilities
For example, students who have difficulty waking early are encouraged to select late morning or afternoon classes. People who have regular hospitalization/ treatments are encouraged to schedule classes on days when they are not being treated.
On occasion, there may be times when a student is unable to attend class because of health problems either stemming directly from the chronic condition or from side effects stemming from its treatment.
In these situations, with medical verification, it may be necessary to remember that unexpected or prolonged absences may result which may require some accommodation. SDAC encourages faculty to investigate alternative strategies for assignment completion with the student. The Campus Health Center is also an excellent resource: 831-582-3965, Building 80.
Grading
Students with chronic health difficulties are expected to complete course requirements appropriately in order to receive passing grades for a course. Although it is necessary that the student completes requirements for grading, accommodations such as extended time to complete course requirements, or giving “Incomplete” grades with an arrangement with the student to complete the course as soon as possible, may be necessary.
In situations where class attendance is a component of grading and the student has legitimately been unable to attend class because of ill health (and sufficient confidential information is on file with SDAC), instructors may want to review policies. Reasonable alternatives or suggestions might include alternate “make up” activities, extra credit projects, or possibly encouraging the student to review and revise course planning schedules and retake the course at another time when absence may be less problematic.
What to do during an epileptic seizure
Call 911. Let trained professionals assess if this is a medical emergency.
Rule number one is to remain calm. Nothing can be done to stop the seizure once it has begun.
Do not try to restrain the individual.
Convulsive/"Grand Mal" seizures: Lower the individual to the ground or floor, if possible, and clear the immediate area of furniture or obstructions to avoid injury. Try to loosen a tie or shirt collar, and place something soft under the person's head. Do not interfere with convulsive movements in any way. Do not place objects in the mouth or try to force anything between the teeth. When the individual regains consciousness, reassure him or her and ask what additional assistance is needed.
With a seizure lasting 10 minutes or longer, or if multiple seizures occur without the person regaining consciousness, it is a medical emergency.
Nonconvulsive/ "Petit Mal" seizures: No medical action is typically needed during these instances. Stay with the person, gently guiding him or her away from obvious hazards, until complete awareness is restored. Speak calmly and reassuringly. Do not grab the person or try to restrain him or her in any way. After the episode, offer to provide additional assistance if needed. Non-convulsive seizures are often mistaken for daydreaming, lack of attention, ignoring instructions, poor coordination, intoxication, or clumsiness. Most pass without incident; however, instructors and staff should be prepared to take action if needed. Be considerate of the student.