Differences between High School and College Accommodations for Students with Disabilities
Below is some quick information highlighting some of the differences for students with disabilities when coming to college and getting accommodations. More detailed information can be found in this printable PDF:
Downloadable PDF of HS vs College Accommodation
Students Self-Identify - students are responsible for getting and using accommodations
| College: Students are responsible for requesting accommodations by registering with EAS and then requesting accommodations with EAS each semester. | High School: Schools are responsible for identifying students with needs and providing accommodations. Case managers ensure student's instructor's are aware of accommodations. |
Grades - all students must meet same grade standards
| College: Grades reflect the quality of the work submitted. Late work is often not accepted. | High School: Grades can be modified based on the curriculum - students work load can be reduced to still demonstrate concept or skill proficiency. Students grades can be scaled to reflect student's ability. |
Parental Involvement - students are responsible for accommodation advocacy
| College: Students are responsible for accommodations, not parents; parents cannot receive information without information release via the student's AIM portal. | High School: Parents can advocate for student and request records of student. |
Teacher Modification - essential learning objectives cannot be adjusted
| College: Professors do not modify the fundamental nature of a program. | High School: Teachers may modify the curriculum and/or alter pace of tasks to meet a student's need. |
Teaching Methods - lecture and homework are college standards for learning
| College: Professors tend to rely on lecture and student choice seating. | High School: Teachers use multi-sensory approach and have a strict movement policy. |
Tracking Progress - student responsibility to manage success
| College: Students are responsible for monitoring attendance, grades, and comprehension of course materials. | High School: Teachers regularly conference with parents, report attendance, and check in with student. Grades are updated regularly for parents to check. |