Every child learns differently. For students with learning disabilities, physical impairments, or neurological differences, traditional classroom settings can present unnecessary barriers to success.
However, schools are legally required to provide accommodations that level the playing field, ensuring all students have equal access to education. Understanding what accommodations are available and how to access them can make a transformative difference in a child's academic journey.
Considering the diversity of student needs, academic accommodations should directly target and address specific challenge areas. Four categories of disabilities that may qualify a student for accommodations are:
Visual impairment: A student who has difficulty reading small print may be offered audio versions of class texts, larger print on handouts, or braille materials. They may also benefit from being assigned a seat close to the teacher or blackboard.
Specific learning disabilities: If a student has dyslexia, for instance, which creates challenges in decoding written language, audiobooks or reading software may help make reading assignments more accessible. Specific learning disabilities may also qualify a student for extended time on tests and assignments.
ADHD: ADHD may make it difficult for a child to stay focused during long class periods, in which case a school may allow that child to take additional breaks throughout the day. A school may also consider whether a modified learning environment with fewer distractions may help a child learn better.
Orthopedic impairments: Physical differences that would make a student unable to hold a pencil or other writing utensil can be supplemented by allowing that student to orally respond to writing prompts or utilize speech-to-text software for completing schoolwork. In the case of a short-term physical impairment such as a broken arm, schools can also grant temporary accommodations to assist in learning until that student may resume work as before.
Academic Accommodation Plans
A 504 plan and an IEP (Individualized Education Program) are both designed to support students with disabilities, but they differ in scope and legal foundation.
A 504 plan falls under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, a civil rights law that prevents discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It provides accommodations and modifications to help students access the general education curriculum equally. Examples include extended test time, preferential seating, or breaks during class. In NYC public schools, any student with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity (like learning, reading, communicating, or breathing) may qualify. 504 plans are broader in eligibility but more limited in services than IEPs.
An IEP is governed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and is specifically for students who need specialized instruction due to one of 13 qualifying disability categories (such as autism, learning disabilities, or speech/language impairments). IEPs are more comprehensive. They include individualized goals, specialized services (like speech therapy or resource room support), and regular progress monitoring. They also require formal evaluations and annual reviews with a team of educators, parents, and specialists.
In short, a 504 plan removes barriers through accommodations, while an IEP provides specialized education services holistically tailored to a student's unique needs.
Assistive Technologies
With the increase of technology use in education, many schools and universities also offer assistive technologies to support learning needs. Some examples include:
● Digital audio recorders
● Listening aid equipment
● Live Scribe recording pens
● Portable standing desks/podiums
● Video magnification equipment
Software systems like Firefly (iPad app), JAWS, and Kurzweil 3000 can help students with reading challenges by reading text aloud and visually highlighting words as they're read. The Dragon software program and Genio note-taking tool are helpful for students with writing difficulties. Dragon is a speech-to-text program, while Genio transcribes audio material, such as recorded lecture content, into written notes that are available for further student review and editing. For students with visual impairments, a program like ZoomText enlarges on-screen content, making it easier to see and navigate digital texts and websites.
With their increasing demand and availability, it is important to note that academic accommodations focus on altering the delivery method or learning environment so that students may better engage with classroom material, rather than changing the content of such material. When implemented thoughtfully, these accommodations don't just level the playing field, but empower students to demonstrate their true abilities and reach their full academic potential. Parents and educators who suspect a student may benefit from accommodations are encouraged to consult with their school's special education team or 504 coordinator to discuss evaluation and support options.
References
Brown University Student Accessibility Services. (n.d.). Academic accommodations. https://studentaccessibility.brown.edu/student-services/accommodations-services/academic-accommodations
Cardenas, J. (2012). IEP eligibility. American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders. https://apfed.org/advocacy/school-advocacy/iep-eligibility/
IRIS Center. (n.d.). Accommodations: Instructional and testing supports for students with disabilities. Peabody College, Vanderbilt University. https://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/module/acc/cresource/q2/p04/
Learning Disabilities Association of America. (n.d.). Accommodations, techniques and aids for learning. https://ldaamerica.org/info/accommodations-techniques-and-aids-for-learning/
New York City Department of Education. (n.d.). 504 accommodations. https://www.schools.nyc.gov/school-life/health-and-wellness/504-accommodations
Understood for All. (2024). Classroom accommodations for written expression disorder. https://www.understood.org/en/articles/classroom-accommodations-written-expression-disorder