student disability services faculty handbook - St. Ambrose University

Do I need to avoid using terms like see, hear, and walk?
No, speak naturally, and use you own language. For example, it is appropriate to say “Nice to see you” to a
person who is blind. Even people with disabilities use everyday words related to their disability. However,
it is recommended that professors use multi-sensory instruction whenever possible.
Is it really fair for a student with a disability to get extra time on an exam? Wo uldn’t every
student do better if they were given extra time?
Fair does not always mean equal. Fair means giving a student what he or she needs. Extended time
minimizes the impact of the disability on the student’s performance. Students with disabilities are not
given an unfair advantage, but are given the opportunity to perform to the best of their ability without
regard to the disability.
How do I find out more about working with students with a particular disability?
The Appendix contains guidelines for working with students with hearing impairments and for working
with a sign language interpreter.
Information about other disabilities may be obtained from Student Disability Services.
If someone with a visible impairment arrives at class early and seems to be having difficulty
getting to his or her seat, should I offer assistance?
If it appears that a student is having difficulty getting around in the room, then ask if he/she would like
some assistance. If the answer is no, please allow him/her to continue independently barring any threat of
injury to self or others.
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2011-2012 Student Disability Services Faculty Handbook
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