Creating Accessible Teaching and Support

We are often overly concerned about talking with students with disability, invading their privacy or using the wrong terminology.

When talking to a student try to ensure that the time offered is free from interruptions and that there is a private space available.  Be clear about the limits of your responsibility: you are not expected to counsel students. 

Acknowledge the student's feelings so they know they have been heard. Don't make their disability an exclusive topic of conversation, but don't be afraid to refer to it if necessary 

Many students are uncertain of the consequences of revealing their disability or may lack the confidence to speak to a member of staff so it may be useful for you to initiate discussion.  Remember the person is a student first!  Provide them with the opportunity to discuss their learning support needs.  Developing basic communication skills will make the interaction easier but the most useful skill is to listen.

Many of us are unsure what to say or do when we meet someone who moves, acts or communicates differently.  Do not be afraid to make a mistake when meeting and communicating with someone with a disability. If you don't know what to do, ask the person about the best way to communicate.

Relax and don’t be embarrassed if you happen to use terms such as ‘See you later’ or ‘Did you hear about ...?’  Developing basic communication skills will make the interaction easier.

• Always remember that a person with a disability is a person like anyone else. Treat adults as adults.
• Look and speak directly to the person rather than communicating with them through their companion.
• Shake hands with the person - use the left hand if necessary.
• When meeting a person who is vision impaired, identify yourself and those with you.
• Provide assistance only when the offer has been accepted.
• When communicating with a person who has difficulty speaking, be patient rather than finishing off their sentences.
• If you haven’t understood something don't assume that they do not understand you. Ask the person to repeat it.
• Be flexible - if one communication strategy doesn't work try another.
• When speaking with a person who uses a wheelchair or crutches, pull up a chair to put yourself at eye level.
• To get the attention of a person who is deaf, tap the person on the shoulder or wave your hand.
• For those who read lips, face the person and keep hands away from your mouth.