Definition
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or attention deficit disorder (without hyperactivity) is characterized by students demonstrating a consistent frequent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity that is more severe compared to the rest of the student population.
Students may have difficulty in one or more of the following areas:
- Distractibility
- Organization & Planning (lack of)
- Listening
- Sedentary tasks (such as reading)
- Sitting for long periods of time
- Completing tasks
Accommodations
Possible accommodations assigned by the TMCC DRC (TMCC Faculty will receive a service letter from the DRC delineating the appropriate accommodations for a particular student):
- Note taker or tape recorder
- Extended time for tests
- Quiet environment for taking tests
- Advanced notice of major assignments
- Tutoring referral
- Preferential seating (reduce distractions)
- Assistive technology (text to voice)
- Reduced course load
- Alternate testing format
- Laptop (in class for note taking)
Faculty Suggestions
- If tests need to be converted into an alternative format, e.g., electronic format, please submit tests to the DRC office one week prior to the scheduled exam date.
- Provide a syllabus with clear course expectations, assignment due dates and test dates. To avoid confusion, have an oral discussion about the syllabus with the class.
- If possible, provide advanced copies of handouts, notes, or PowerPoint slides in class or online.
- Provide lecture materials in multiple modalities, including visual, oral and written to promote accessibility to course content.
- Allow frequent opportunities for student feedback when providing structure and organization in the classroom.
- If possible, be willing to briefly meet with the students before or after class to clear any possible confusion in regards to class discussion, assignments or tests.