Successfully Navigating Exceptionalities at a University
Client Problem
A student with an exceptionality had been asked to leave their university because of under-performance and was seeking readmission. The student knew something had to change in order for them to succeed but they didn’t know where to start.
Learning Lab Solution
After an initial analysis it was clear that there were several problems to be addressed and therefore we needed a multidimensional solution that involved both the student and the university. Based on our educational framework we identified gaps in the student’s knowledge, motivation and organization. These gaps were exacerbated because on the legal side the student and institution had not clearly defined the accommodations they deserved under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Our approach was a mixture of immediate solutions and long-term foundations that put in place a team of people that could support the student and the university. A few examples of our solutions include:
Enrolling the student in a community college, which provided an alternative learning environment for the student to get better grades and hone their academic skills.
Creating a comprehensive academic map to help the student study and complete projects. It included everything from best practices for retaining information, to goal setting for motivation, to how to organize your day to stay on track. The student would check-in with Learning Lab to discuss successes and barriers weekly so we could optimize the plan to best serve their exceptionalities and goals.
Creating a medical team that included an occupational therapist and medical professional. They secured the appropriate diagnosis and treatments that allowed the student to understand their needs and secure the appropriate accommodations with the university under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Outlining the accommodations needed by the student to achieve success when re-admitted to the university. This clarity helped the student to continue to advocate for themself and helped the university clearly communicate with its staff about the needs and rights of the student.
Once the student was readmitted we did quarterly check-ins with the student and the school to assess the situation and make any adjustments needed to create success for both parties.
Results
The student was readmitted into the university and graduated.
Learning Lab continued to work with the medical and university team to seek and secure gainful employment for the student.
