[Athen] Cerebral Palsy

[Teresa Haven]

Hi, Adam.  It sounds like the student could use a step up in technology - writing essays is not only necessary on exams, but also for homework, papers, all kinds of tasks throughout the university. I'd suggest exploring some combination of word prediction software to increase typing speed/fluency and a specialized keyboard (like the Maltron Expanded Keyboard) (or try setting up Sticky Keys and/or Filter Keys on a standard keyboard) to help with reducing false keystrokes.  Neither of these would be a test modification (although they would still require extended time), they would just be  technology alternatives to allow the student to effectively express their thoughts.

Hope this helps,
Teresa

Teresa Haven, Ph.D.
Accessibility Analyst, Northern Arizona University



From: athen-list [mailto:athen-list-bounces at mailman13.u.washington.edu] On Behalf Of Wouk, Adam
Sent: Wednesday, February 10, 2016 2:46 PM
To: 'athen-list at u.washington.edu'
Subject: [Athen] Cerebral Palsy

Good Afternoon everyone,

I have a student who is coming to college for his first semester. He has been out of school for 2 years. This student has Cerebral Palsy, is unable to speak and has limited muscle control in his arms and hands. He uses a Samsung tablet that has a PECS board on it to communicate. The PECS board is limited. Right now the biggest obstacle is testing. He does very well with multiple choice and true and false. However, the PECS board is not enough for him to communicate to the scribe answers for anything that must be written out for essays and short answers. I have tried iPads and computers so that he could type but because he has limited muscle control in his hands, it is difficult for him to type with any accuracy.

Our school is VERY resistant to test modifications. I am looking for ideas. This is a new case for me and I'm not totally sure on how to proceed. Any help would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks,
Adam Wouk
Educational Case Manager ~ Center for Disability Services
Moraine Valley Community College
Email: wouka at morainevalley.edu<mailto:wouka at morainevalley.edu>
Phone: 708-608-4120


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