Learning and Physical Abilities

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Role Model
He spent only three months on Capitol Hill, but Zach Ennis, a deaf college intern in the office of Representative Kevin Yoder (R-KS), developed a video to help the congressman reach out to his deaf constituency that could be a model for others. How can Zach’s achievements inspire you to overcome challenges that you face?
Source: MCT via Getty Images

Although the majority of college students have reasonably average learning and physical abilities, the numbers of students with physical or learning disabilities are rising on most college campuses, as are the services that are available to them. Physical disabilities can include deafness, blindness, paralysis, or a mental disorder. As discussed in Chapter 3, many students have some form of learning disability that makes college work a challenge.

People who have physical or learning disabilities want to be treated just as you would treat anyone else—with respect. If a student with a disability is in your class, treat him or her as you would any student; too much eagerness to help might be seen as an expression of pity.

If you have, or think you might have, a learning disability, visit your campus office for students with disabilities for a diagnosis and advice on getting extra help for learning problems. Unlike in high school, students with disabilities need to inform this office if they require accommodations.