Students with Disabilities: Special Education Categories

Summary

This video provides an in-depth exploration of the 14 categories of disabilities in students, offering educators and teachers key characteristics and teaching strategies for each. From intellectual disabilities to autism, the video covers the diverse needs of students with disabilities, explaining how conditions like ADHD, traumatic brain injury, and visual impairments impact learning. It highlights various accommodations, such as assistive technology, early intervention, and individualized education plans (IEPs), empowering teachers to support these students effectively in the classroom.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Intellectual disabilities involve below-average intelligence (IQ below 70) and difficulties with adaptive behavior. Teaching strategies include using concrete examples, manipulatives, and breaking down tasks.
• 👂🧑‍🦯 Children with both hearing and visual impairments, often caused by Usher syndrome, require large print, Braille, and sign language for learning.
• 📝 Specific learning disabilities affect a child's ability to think, read, write, or do math. Teachers should follow the IEP and focus on the student’s strengths and weaknesses.
• 👂 Deafness involves a hearing loss of over 90 decibels. Students benefit from assistive technologies like text-to-speech and classroom note-takers.
• 👶 Developmental disabilities include delays in physical, cognitive, and social development. Early intervention services like assistive technology and medical care are essential.
• 🔋 Other health impairments include conditions like ADHD, causing concentration issues. Teachers should highlight student strengths and create a supportive learning environment.
• 😔 Emotional disturbance includes disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Teachers should implement behavior intervention plans to support these students.
• 🗣️ Speech or language impairments affect communication. Teachers should collaborate with speech-language pathologists to support the student’s needs.
• 🧠 Traumatic brain injuries result from external forces and affect memory and concentration. Teachers should offer accommodations like extra time and simplified tasks.
• 💪 Orthopedic impairments involve severe bone or muscle issues. Classrooms should be arranged to support mobility, and seating accommodations may be necessary.

Q & A

What are the main characteristics of students with intellectual disabilities?

Students with intellectual disabilities have significantly below-average general intelligence, with an IQ below 70. They may have difficulties with comprehension, adaptive behavior, and life functions like performing simple tasks, such as washing their hands.

What teaching strategies can be effective for students with intellectual disabilities?

Teachers should use concrete examples, be patient, break down material into smaller steps, and use manipulatives and engaging resources to help these students learn effectively.

What is Usher syndrome, and how does it affect children?

Usher syndrome is a genetic condition affecting children from birth, characterized by hearing and visual disabilities. Children with this syndrome experience hearing loss and need teaching aids like large print textbooks, Braille, sign language, and tactile learning methods.

What defines a specific learning disability, and how does it affect students?

A specific learning disability is a disorder affecting basic psychological processes, causing difficulties in areas like reading, writing, math, or speaking. Students may struggle with processing information in specific subjects.

What accommodations are recommended for students with deafness?

Students with deafness may require text-to-speech technology, classroom note-takers, and assistive technology to help them access the curriculum since they cannot hear, even with amplification devices like hearing aids.

How are students with developmental delays supported in the classroom?

Students with developmental delays often receive early intervention services, including assistive technology and medical or nutritional support. Teachers should focus on physical, cognitive, social-emotional, and adaptive development.

How should teachers approach students with emotional disturbances?

Students with emotional disturbances may experience psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. Teachers should have behavior intervention plans in place and be prepared to manage challenging behaviors.

What are some common challenges faced by students with speech or language impairments?

Students with speech or language impairments may struggle with stuttering, articulation issues, and communication during class presentations. Early identification and collaboration with speech-language pathologists are crucial for supporting these students.

What are the key characteristics of students with traumatic brain injuries?

Students with traumatic brain injuries may have difficulties with memory, concentration, and cognitive processing. Teachers should provide extra time, clear worksheets, and scaffolding to help them succeed in the classroom.

What strategies can help students with autism in the classroom?

Students with autism benefit from structured routines, clear instructions, and step-by-step guidance. Teachers should be aware of their unique communication styles and provide cues and visual supports to facilitate learning.