It is not a disability, it's an
ability that counts.
The advent of online exams has
helped disabled students to take exams from the comfort of their homes. However
online exams come with their set of challenges. From navigating electronic
platforms to accessing assistive technologies, disabled students must have a
solid strategy in place to prepare for their online exams. With the right
tools, resources, and strategies it is possible to excel in your exam despite
the odds. In this guide, we'll dive into tailored accommodations, resources,
and strategies that will ensure students have their online exams with
confidence. This guide will take you on the journey of preparing yourself for
online exams.
Types of learning disabilities and challenges faced
on online exams
Several factors can lead to learning disorders,
both biological and genetic like reading, writing, etc. The three most common
types of learning disability among students are:
1. Dyscalculia: A difficulty in understanding
numbers
2. Dysgraphia: A neurological disorder on written
expression.
3. Language processing disorder: When a student faces
challenges in spoken language in both receptive and expressive ways.
4. Auditory processing disorder: affects the ability
to understand and interpret spoken information.
5. Executive functioning disorder: A learning disorder
that affects the ability to plan, organize, and complete tasks.
The impact of disability on students can vary from
one to another.
One student might require minimum support while
another might need significant help. Students with disabilities can face
difficulties like
·
Lack of accommodation can hinder
their inability to express their needs while giving exams.
·
The Lack of information and
communication technology designed to meet the needs of disabled students.
·
They might struggle with
understanding the format and structure of online exams if not presented
accordingly.
· Online exams require students to
work independently which is impossible in this case.
· Time management can be
challenging for students with a disability during online exams as they require
more time and breaks to complete tasks.
· Some educators have a limited
understanding of such students' specific needs and challenges during
exams and may not know how to best support them to succeed.
Preparing for an online exam as a disabled student
·
Research and understand
accessibility features available exclusively for you.
·
Familiarize yourself with the
format and structure of examinations beforehand.
·
Ensure that the assistive
technology being used is compatible with the format of the examination.
·
Develop a study plan that meets
your special needs like, taking quick breaks to manage fatigue.
·
Encourage yourself to revise
only what is necessary, and learn in smaller chunks.
·
Clear and concise instructions
can help students navigate the exam. Providing detailed instructions, in both
written and audio structure can ensure that every student understands the exam
requirements.
·
Use other understanding-checking
strategies, such as oral summaries, rather than concentrating solely on written
responses. Students who struggle with literacy or comprehension issues may find
this to be especially helpful.
Resources for disabled students to get exam help
and support
Disables or specially-abled
students can benefit from various new available resources
· Peer tutoring and mentoring
programs make up additional support for preparing for online exams.
· Online resources like webinars and tutorials can be of enormous help for students looking for help during online
exams.
· Technologies have opened up a
plethora of possibilities, tools like Handpicked, Family Connect, Ginger, and
Audio Notetaker, are informative sources and software easy to use
· The British Dyslexia Association(BDA)
offers online resources and support for students with dyslexia including exam
preparation tips and strategies.
· Disability study support and
specialist equipment are provided by the Disabled Student Allowance(DSA) in the
UK.
Educational institutions' responsibility toward
disabled students
Ø Disability service officers and staff can
provide guidance and resources to disabled students preparing for online
exams
Ø Schools, colleges, and universities must offer
training support for instructors to ensure they are equipped to provide quality
education and accommodations for such students during online exams.
Ø The boards must prepare a multiple-choice question
that is easier to understand and complete for students with cognitive disabilities.
Ø Schools and universities can provide web-based
tutorials and study guides that help disabled students understand and prepare for
online exams.
Ø There is a need for collaboration between
institute officers and students to identify specific needs so that the former
can provide tailored solutions.
Ø Institutions should offer flexible scheduling
for exams for extended time for students with a specific disability.
Ø The panel must consider providing alternative
online exam help, different formats like audio and visual
formats, modification in exam papers, and personal assistance, which can
benefit specially-abled students prepare for online exams.
Overall, educational
systems have a responsibility to provide meaningful access to online exams and
work collaboratively to identify and provide appropriate arrangements. By prioritizing
the needs of such students institutions can work towards more inclusive and
accessible learning environments for all.
Conclusion
Preparing for online exams as disabled
students is challenging but it is possible to excel if support is provided with
the right resources and accommodation. It is also essential for institutions to
work with disabled students and familiarize them with the online exam platform.
By promoting an inclusive and supportive culture we can help such students feel
empowered to reach such potential and achieve academic and personal goals.
You can do a lot more than you can imagine.
Remember to use study aids effectively.
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