Page 27 - Education August 2024

The Process of Obtaining Accommodations
Here are some common types of
accommodations and concessions: Applying for accommodations typically involves several steps:
• Additional Time: Extra minutes per • Psycho-Educational Assessment: Conducted by a qualified psychologist to
hour of examination are granted identify learning barriers and recommend specific accommodations.
to ensure students can complete • Medical Reports: If applicable, these reports provide evidence of any medical
their work without undue stress. For conditions affecting the student’s learning.
example, a student might receive • Teacher Comments: Insight from teachers on how the student’s difficulties
an extra 10 minutes per hour of impact their classroom performance.
examination to accommodate slower • School Reports and Work Samples: These documents support the need for
reading or writing speeds. accommodations by showcasing the student’s academic history and current
• Scribes and Readers: A scribe writes challenges.
verbatim what the learner dictates,
and a reader reads all text in an The application process can be lengthy, often taking several weeks to months,
examination paper to the learner. so starting as early as possible is essential. If an application is denied, there is
This is useful for students with severe usually an option to appeal the decision.
reading difficulties.
• Amanuensis: An amanuensis reads to The Impact on Students
and writes for the learner, providing The right accommodations can significantly impact a student’s academic
comprehensive support during performance and overall well-being. Having access to technology supporting
exams. his learning has been transformative for my son. It has allowed him to express
• Separate Venues: Quiet his ideas without the barrier of dyslexia, fostering his creativity and intellectual
environments that minimise growth.
distractions are crucial for students
with attention disorders like ADHD. However, over and above this, his school’s mentorship and personal growth
• Rest Breaks: Periods during which focus have helped my son develop emotional intelligence (EQ), executive
the learner is not required to be at functioning, self-reliance, accountability, ownership, and conflict-resolution
their desk but must remain in the skills, which are just as important as academic success. This holistic approach
examination venue. Rest breaks to education recognises that authentic learning encompasses more than just
help manage fatigue and maintain academic achievement; it includes personal development and the ability to
concentration. navigate life’s challenges.
• Computer Assistance: Use of a
computer to present answers in a Understanding accommodations and concessions can be daunting, but ensuring
typed form, which can be crucial for that twice-exceptional children receive the education they deserve is crucial. By
students with handwriting difficulties. understanding and advocating for these supports, parents and educators can
• Spelling and Handwriting help unlock the full potential of students like my son, allowing them to thrive
Accommodations: Spelling errors academically and personally.
are overlooked as long as the text
is phonetically correct, and untidy My son’s journey has shown me the profound impact of the right educational
handwriting is accommodated with a environment and support on a child’s life. His school has given him the tools
sticker alerting markers. and confidence he needs to succeed, and I am passionate about sharing this
• Braille or Enlarged Print: Examination experience with others. If you need more information or support, feel free to
papers can be offered in Braille or reach out – I am always here to help guide you through this journey.
enlarged print for visually impaired
learners.
• Medication and Food Intake:
Students may need to take
medication or consume food
and beverages during an exam
to maintain their health and
concentration.
• Prompter: A prompter provides
verbal or physical cues to refocus a
learner who is easily distracted.
• Exemptions: In some cases, students
may be exempt from specific subjects
that pose significant challenges due
to their disabilities.

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