"Learning disabilities" are defined by a broad range of symptoms. If you
read the literature from the U.K., often you find that the subjects with
learning disabilities are regarded at a level that is minimally
functional. Other countries, along with the U.K. have considered various
approaches toward the inclusion of all interested in learning.

In any place, historically, students with learning disabilities who
admitted the conditions were put into "special" classrooms. Parents
fought against the labeling that brought such shame. We are only
beginning to realize that our text-based society is so limiting and
limited insofar as allowing varied brilliance and talents to emerge so
as to add value to our existences. Maybe the approach should be toward
highlighting learning styles/methods that will work to advantage for the
person rather than toward admitting a learning disability? For example,
you might say, "If you learn better--or like to learn better--by
listening than by reading, we have the equipment/tools/methods you
prefer." or "If you find that listening to the text being read as you
read it enhances your learning experience, we have the
equipment/tools/methods you will enjoy using." Or say "Here's a
different way to learn effectively. ALL are welcome to try it." (Many do
not know they have learning disabilities.)

And don't put the equipment/tools/methods in some dark corner of a
building. Integrate them everywhere. Make it "normal" to vary in
approaches to learning.

:-)  I'm not putting myself up as a role model, but I've thought about
this and researched a lot. Good luck!

Bambrick, Jane wrote:

>Cathy,
>     I wish Idid have a success story.  Here our equipment is
>underutilized.  Students are reluctant to identify themselves
>as learning disabled...Please make sure you post the date that
>this success story will be published....I could use a role model.
>Yhank you for your interest in this.
>
>Jane Bambrick
>William Paterson University
>David and Lorraine Cheng Library
>Wayne, New Jerseyy 07470
>973-720-2290
>
>-----Original Message-----
>From: Cathy Murphy [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
>Sent: Wednesday, July 10, 2002 4:28 PM
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: Syllabus Magazine writing about adaptive technology
>
>
>Hello everyone. I am a writer for Syllabus Magazine.We're working on our
>September issue on adaptive technology and I've just been advised to join
>this listserve to gather more information. I'm hoping to find a really
>innovative and significant application of adaptive technology in a college
>or university library. Essentially, a sucess story of how one campus library
>is making a difference for its disability community. The story would be the
>basis of a case study in Syllabus. If you want to learn more about Syllabus,
>visit www.syllabus.com. If you have a story to tell (or a link to send me),
>please email me by July 12. Thanks very much.
>
>Cathy Murphy
>[log in to unmask]
>