Program for Students with Learning Disorders

Learning Disorders are disabilities that affect learning in individuals of average or above average intellectual ability.

Learning disorders include:

• Learning disability, such as dyslexia or dysgraphia (LD)
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Asperger syndrome/Autism spectrum disorders (AS/ASD)
• Tourette's syndrome (TS)
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

Each has its own set of symptoms; however, they often occur in combinations of two or more disorders.

All may present in mild to severe form.

All may be accompanied by depression and anxiety.

All may have a serious effect on learning.

Effects on Learning

Learning disability (LD) is a permanent disorder that affects the manner in which individuals with average or above average intelligence take in, process, remember, or express information. LD causes a deficit in one or more areas of learning such as reading, spelling, writing, or mathematics.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a persistent pattern of inattention, with or without hyperactivity or impulsivity, with impairment in at least two settings. ADHD interferes with developmentally appropriate social, academic, or occupational functioning.

Aspergers Syndrome (AS) is an Autism Spectrum Disorder sometimes referred to as "high functioning autism”.  It characterized by deficits in social interactions, impaired communication skills, and unusual behaviors. It frequently causes deficits in understanding other people and rigid, inflexible thinking.

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by the reoccurrence of thoughts and actions that cause intense anxiety if the individual does not attend to them.  Commonly occurs with ADHD.

Tourette's syndrome (TS) is characterized muscle or vocal tics that interfere with the student's fluent processing or expressing of information. Commonly occurs with ADHD.

Available Services
The Learning Disorders Program at UMD provides academic counseling and accommodations to students with these disabilities.  Specific academic accommodations are determined by the functional limitations stated in the student's disability documentation. 

Commonly used accommodations:

• Alternative testing, such as extended time or low distraction testing room
• Alternative text formats (e-text, CD, etc) for exams and text books
• Assistance obtaining classroom note takers
• Proofreading of written projects
• Priority registration until junior status (60 credits)
• General academic counseling and advisement

The program also promotes self-advocacy by helping students understand their rights and responsibilities under Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

To use services

Students must

1.  Meet with a Disability Services & Resources counselor to discuss their disability and its impact on learning.

2.  Provide evidence of the disability in the form of written documentation from a qualified professional.

3.  Complete and sign DS&R registration and agreement forms.

4.  Complete and submit accommodation request forms in a timely manner.

 Additional helpful resources
Skills enhancement courses through the Supportive Services Program
Student group (Access for All)

Prospective Students

Prospective students are advised to contact Disability Services & Resources before or during the application process. Disability Services & Resources counselors are also available to advise students during orientation if contacted in advance.

For MORE information

For more information about the Learning Disorders Program at UMD, contact:

Judy Bromen
Cognitive Disabilities Program Coordinator
Disability Services & Resources
(218) 726-7965
jbromen@d.umn.edu

or

Penny Cragun
Director
Disability Services & Resources
(218) 726-8727
pcragun@d.umn.edu

This information is available in alternative formats if requested.

Sunday, 15-Jun-2008 15:17:38 CDT