Have you ever wondered why some students thrive in an educational setting while others seem to struggle, despite having similar capabilities? It could be that the difference lies in the adjustments made within the learning environment.
In the world of education, the term “reasonable adjustments” refers to the modifications or accommodations that help create an inclusive atmosphere where every student has the opportunity to excel. From personalised learning plans to alternative assessment methods, these adjustments are tailored to meet the diverse learning needs of students. Unfortunately, many educators and stakeholders remain uncertain about what constitutes a reasonable adjustment and how they can effectively implement it.
Recognising that not all learners are the same is crucial in today’s educational landscape. Whether you’re an educator striving to foster an inclusive classroom, a parent seeking the best for your child, or a policymaker looking to enhance educational systems, understanding reasonable adjustments is vital.
Differentiation vs. adjustments
Differentiation in education means to tailor activities for each learning style, tapping into the individual differences between students. Differentiation is for all students at all times.
In contrast, adjustments go beyond differentiation. Adjustments are changes that are made so that a student with a disability has the same opportunity for success as every other student in the class.
Read More: Reasonable Adjustments for Students with Learning Difficulties
What are reasonable adjustments in education?
Reasonable adjustments in education refer to changes made to teaching and learning environments to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to education. These adjustments are designed to accommodate the specific needs of students with disabilities and help them participate fully in educational activities.
These adjustments should be tailored to meet the individual needs of each student and should not create an undue burden on the school or other students.
Schools must provide reasonable adjustment(s) to assist students with disability to access and participate in education on the same basis as other students.
“On the same basis” means that a student with a disability has opportunities and choices that are comparable with those offered to students or prospective students without disability concerning:
- Admission or enrolment
- Participation in courses or programs
- Use of facilities and services provided
However, education providers are not obligated to decrease academic standards or ignore the needs of staff or other pupils.
Who are reasonable adjustments in education for?
Reasonable adjustments are for any student who has a disability that might hinder their access to education. This includes students with a wide range of disabilities, such as:
- Physical disabilities: Students who have difficulty moving around or using their bodies.
- Sensory disabilities: Students who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or have low vision.
- Intellectual disabilities: Students who have difficulty learning or understanding information.
- Learning disabilities: Students who have difficulty processing or understanding information.
- Autism: Students who have difficulty communicating or interacting with others
Examples of reasonable adjustments in education
Many different types of reasonable adjustments can be made in education. Some examples include:
- Providing assistive technology: This could include devices like computers, tablets, or speech-to-text software.
- Adapting teaching materials: This could involve using larger fonts, providing audio recordings, or using alternative formats like Braille.
- Adjusting the physical environment: This could involve making changes to classrooms or other learning spaces to make them more accessible.
- Providing extra time for assessments: This could allow students with disabilities to complete tests or assignments at their own pace.
- Offering additional support: This could include providing tutoring, counselling, or other forms of support.
- Preferential seating: Assigning students a seat conducive to their learning, such as a seat near the teacher or in a quiet area.
- Alternative assessments: Providing alternative forms of assessment, such as oral presentations or projects, to accommodate students who may struggle with traditional written tests.
- Individualised education programs (IEPs): Developing IEPs for students with disabilities to outline their specific needs, goals and the appropriate accommodations and modifications that need to be in place.
It is important to note that what constitutes a reasonable adjustment can vary depending on the individual circumstances of the student and the school. Schools should work closely with students, parents, and educators to identify and implement appropriate adjustments that will allow students with disabilities to succeed in the classroom.
Final thoughts
Reasonable adjustments in education are not just policies, they are pathways to empowerment, inclusivity, and success for every student. By understanding the unique needs of learners and embracing flexible approaches, we can create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Remember, education should be a bridge, not a barrier—so let’s advocate for the changes that ensure every child can walk across it with confidence! Together, we can build a brighter future where every student shines!
Book an appointment with one of our experienced developmental and educational psychologists today to discuss your needs and whether our assessment and intervention services are appropriate for you.
Author
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Dr Kate Jacobs
Director / Educational and Developmental PsychologistDr Kate Jacobs completed a combined PhD/Masters in Educational and Developmental Psychology at Monash University in 2013. She was awarded the Mollie Holman Doctoral Medal for the best PhD thesis in the Education Faculty for the year.