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Tag: Accessibility

Modern Accessibility Services in Higher Education

The number of college students who report having disabilities has nearly doubled since 2004. Accessibility services on college campuses are vital for ensuring all students succeed. As the understanding of disabilities evolves, so do the strategies for support.

To gain deeper insights into these developments, our team attended the recent AHEAD Conference in Baltimore. A session titled “Postsecondary Disability Resources and Accessibility – Where Are We Going and How Did We Get Here?” was led by Ian Kunkes, Enjie Hall, Jon McGough, Charnessa Warren, and Maria Schiano. These experts offered valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of disability services.

Here’s what we learned and what we’ll discuss in this blog: 

  • The history of accessibility services 
  • Increasing demand and need for comprehensive support 
  • Changing attitudes and increased disclosure 
  • Moving towards inclusive designs 

        1. History of Accessibility Services

        The movement for disability resources in higher education can be traced back to UC Berkeley.

        In 1962, Ed Roberts, a bright and ambitious student with polio, sought admission to UC Berkeley. Through meetings with university officials and his mother, arrangements were made for him to live in Cowell Hospital instead of the residence halls.

        UC Berkeley was a pioneer in accommodating students with disabilities, igniting a civil rights movement that paved the way for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

        While the Civil Rights Act of 1964, marked a significant step forward, it wasn’t until 1990 that the specific needs of individuals with disabilities were explicitly addressed through the ADA.

        Since then, the pace, complexity, and volume of accommodation requests have steadily increased, requiring a corresponding expansion of disability office staff and resources on college campuses nationwide.

        2. Increasing Demand and Need for Comprehensive Support

        The surge in accommodation requests necessitates increased staffing for college disability offices. One-on-one meetings with students are increasingly crucial for understanding and meeting their unique needs.

        This growing complexity is further exemplified by the rising number of emotional support animals on campus, reflecting a broader evolution in student support requirements.

        The Wall Street Journal reported a staggering 171% increase in accommodation requests for SAT and PSAT examinations between 2010 and 2017, underscoring the rapid pace of change in this arena.

        In response to this growing demand, modern accessibility services now emphasize holistic support, incorporating comprehensive support plans beyond simple “yes/no” accommodations, ensuring students have access to a wide range of resources.

        3. Changing Attitudes and Increased Disclosure

        The National Center for Education Statistics reports that about 20% of undergraduate students and nearly 11% of graduate students have a disability.

        The increase of accessibility information online has led to more students disclosing their disabilities and seeking accommodations.

        As a result, disability is increasingly recognized as a critical dimension of diversity, alongside race and gender.

        This heightened awareness has led to a growing emphasis on comprehensive support, exemplified by the rise of Comprehensive Support Plans. These plans recognize that access alone is insufficient and that students require additional resources to thrive.

        4. Moving Towards Inclusive Design

        Furthermore, the future of disability resources is focused on Capacity Building Strategies, where programs, departments, and physical spaces are designed to be accessible to the broadest spectrum of individuals.

        This approach ensures that accessibility is an integral part of the campus infrastructure, providing equal opportunities for all students.

        As institutions continue to evolve, it’s crucial to integrate these strategies to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for students with disabilities, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to succeed academically and personally.

        5. Key Takeaways

        The evolution of disability services in higher education reflects a growing commitment to inclusion and equity. From its pioneering beginnings at UC Berkeley, to the complex landscape of today, the journey has been marked by significant progress.

        By embracing inclusive design principles and fostering a culture of understanding, institutions of higher education can create environments where all students can reach their full potential.

        Further Reading: 6 Ways Software Can Help Your School Manage Accommodation Requests

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        Improving Health Communication in Higher Education

        (Best Practices and What to Avoid)

        We all know what happens when communication breaks down – chaos erupts! Effective health communication is vital for promoting wellness and managing health concerns on college campuses. Understanding and applying best practices in health communication can significantly enhance health services utilization and the overall well-being of the student population.

        Let’s dive into the essential elements of effective health communication, the application of health literacy models and plain language guidelines and identify common errors and opportunities for improvement.


        Best Practices in Health Communication

        1. Know Your Audience

        Understanding the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and needs of your student population is crucial. Tailor your messages to address the specific concerns and preferences of different student groups, such as international students, students with disabilities, or those from various cultural backgrounds.

        2. Utilize Multiple Channels

        Students access information through various channels, including social media, email, campus websites, and physical materials (flyers, bulletin boards, etc.). Ensure your health messages are distributed through multiple platforms to maximize engagement. Use engaging visuals and multimedia content to capture attention and make information more accessible.

        Learn more about promoting campus resources through social media here.

        3. Be Clear & Concise

        Clarity and brevity are essential in health communication. Avoid medical jargon and complex language that may confuse or overwhelm students. Use plain language guidelines to ensure your messages are easily understood. For example, instead of saying “administer medication,” use “take medicine.”

        4. Foster Foster Two-Way Communication

        Encourage feedback and dialogue with students. Create opportunities for students to ask questions, share concerns, and provide input on health initiatives. This can be done through online forums, in-person events, anonymous surveys, or suggestion boxes. Two-way communication builds trust and ensures that your messages are relevant and effective.

        Applying Health Literacy Models and Plain Language Guidelines

        Health Literacy Models

        Health literacy involves the ability to obtain, process, and understand basic health information to make informed health decisions. Applying health literacy models can enhance the effectiveness of your communication efforts.

        The Health Belief Model (HBM): The HBM can help predict and explain health behaviors by focusing on individuals’ beliefs about health conditions, perceived benefits of action, and barriers to action. Use this model to design messages that address perceived risks and emphasize the benefits of adopting healthy behaviors.

        For example, to encourage students to get flu vaccinations, you might highlight the perceived severity of the flu by sharing stories of severe cases and the high risk of contagion in a campus environment.

        Simultaneously, emphasize the benefits of vaccination, such as increased immunity, reduced absenteeism, and protection for vulnerable peers and campus staff. Address barriers by providing information on convenient campus vaccination clinics, reducing cost concerns, and dispelling myths about vaccine safety.

        The Socio-Ecological Model (SEM): The SEM considers the complex interplay between individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and societal factors. Use this model to develop multi-level interventions that address various determinants of health and create supportive environments for behavior change.

        For example, to encourage college students to take care of their mental health, you could implement individual-level strategies like providing access to online self-help resources and counseling services. At the interpersonal level, facilitate peer support groups and mental health awareness training for student leaders.

        Moreover, advocate for policies that reduce academic stress, such as flexible deadlines and mental health days. Community-level interventions might include partnerships with local mental health organizations to provide workshops and resources. Lastly, at the societal level, engage in advocacy efforts to reduce stigma around mental health and promote broader cultural acceptance of seeking help.

        Plain Language Guidelines

        Plain language guidelines emphasize clear and straightforward communication. Here are some key principles:

        • Use simple words and sentences: Replace complex terms with simpler alternatives. For example, use “high blood pressure” instead of “hypertension.”
        • Be direct: State your main message at the beginning and keep sentences short.
        • Use active voice: Active voice is more engaging and easier to understand. For example, “Wash your hands” is better than “Hands should be washed.”
        • Organize information logically: Use headings, bullet points, and numbered lists to break down information and make it easier to scan.

        Common Errors and Opportunities for Improvement

        Error 1: Overloading Information

        Providing too much information at once can overwhelm students and reduce the likelihood of them retaining key messages. Focus on delivering essential information in manageable chunks.

        Opportunity: Prioritize and segment information visually. Use infographics and summaries to highlight key points.

        Error 2: Ignoring Cultural Sensitivity

        Health messages that do not consider cultural differences may be ineffective or even offensive to some students.

        Opportunity: Engage with diverse student groups to understand their perspectives and tailor messages accordingly. Use culturally relevant examples, images, and language.

        Error 3: Lack of Visual Appeal

        Plain text messages may be ignored or overlooked, especially in today’s visually-driven digital landscape.

        Opportunity: Incorporate visuals, such as images, videos, and infographics, to make messages more engaging and easier to understand.

        Error 4: Inadequate Follow-Up

        Sending out a health message without follow-up can lead to low engagement and missed opportunities for behavior change.

        Opportunity: Use automated reminders and follow-up communications to reinforce messages. Provide support to encourage sustained behavior change.

        Key Takeaways

        Effective health communication on college campuses requires a strategic approach that considers the diverse needs of the student population. By applying health literacy models, adhering to plain language guidelines, and addressing common pitfalls, colleges of all sizes can enhance their communication efforts and promote a healthier campus environment.

        Take health promotion a step further on your campus with Strategies to Boost Immunization Rates.

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        Building an Accessible Wellness Culture in Higher Education

        According to the CDC, individuals with disabilities tend to rate their health lower compared to those without disabilities, (28.4% versus 61.4%).

        This stark disparity underscores the critical need for fostering a culture of inclusive and accessible wellness on campus.

        Let’s explore how you can create engaging and accessible wellness programs for your students.

        Breaking Down Barriers

        Beyond the Physical Accommodations

        Going beyond physical accessibility is crucial. For instance, colleges must consider sensory sensitivities, cognitive limitations, and language barriers when designing and implementing programs.

        According to Cognitive Disability and Postsecondary Education: A National Study on Earnings, “a student with an intellectual disability who earns a bachelor’s degree may earn 68% more than a student who did not go to college.

        This stresses the importance of offering an environment where students with disabilities can thrive, and fostering an inclusive wellness atmosphere can meaningfully support this goal.

        Language Matters

        Inclusive communication is key to ensuring all students are aware of the resources available to them.

        According to the CDC, health promotion messages frequently neglect accessibility barriers faced by individuals with disabilities.

        These barriers include the absence of large-print or Braille materials for those with vision impairments, uncaptioned videos for those with hearing impairments, and complex language that may hinder comprehension for individuals with cognitive impairments.

        Ensure your campus utilizes inclusive language with the following strategies:

        • Conduct regular accessibility audits of all health-related materials, including websites, social media posts, printed materials, and video content.
        • Provide training for staff on inclusive communication and the importance of accessibility.
        • Collaborate with disability services to identify and address specific needs within the campus community.

        Gain more tips on enhancing health communication here.

        Building an Inclusive Culture

        Marketing for Everyone

        Promote your wellness activities in diverse ways, utilizing channels that reach all student groups.

        Consider the following tips:

        • Partner with student organizations, utilizing social media platforms, and employing inclusive and inviting visuals in your marketing materials.
        • Include individuals with disabilities in posters that are hung around your wellness centers and on your school’s website.
        • Ensure that you’re using clear headings and easy-to-read fonts.
        • If you’re using any videos to promote wellness and fitness centers on your campus, including captions is also essential.

        Creating Safe Spaces

        Creating safe spaces for all students is essential for building an inclusive culture.

        Foster a welcoming and supportive environment by:

        • Establishing clear guidelines against discrimination and harassment
        • Promoting respect and understanding
        • Actively addressing any concerns raised by students

        According to a report from the Center for Collegiate Mental Health at Penn State University, college students experiencing discrimination are more inclined to report elevated levels of social isolation, suicidal thoughts, and overall distress to counselors compared to their counterparts.

        This underscores the critical importance of implementing proactive measures to address discrimination and promote inclusivity within the college campus community.

        Making Wellness Accessible

        Adapting Activities

        Making wellness accessible requires a multifaceted approach.

        Here’s how to adjust activities so that all students can participate:

        • Offer different difficulty levels, providing alternative formats for participation, and incorporate assistive technologies when necessary. 
        • Ensure wellness areas are physically accessible, with features like ramps,wide doorways, and accessible restrooms.
        • Provide quiet spaces for students who require sensory accommodations.

        By implementing these strategies, you’ll create a wellness environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to participate.

        Utilize Technology

        Technology can be a powerful tool for enhancing accessibility.

        Online platforms, virtual reality experiences, and assistive applications can broaden participation opportunities for students with various needs.

        For example, virtual fitness classes can accommodate students with mobility limitations, while captioning and transcription services can make video content accessible to those with hearing impairments.

        Additionally, consider using AI-powered tools to provide personalized wellness recommendations and support.

        Embracing technology can elevate your efforts to create more inclusive and engaging wellness programs.

        The Power of Partnerships

        Collaborating with other campus resources can be invaluable in providing comprehensive wellness support.

        Wellness and fitness centers should partner with accessibility services, counseling centers, and student advocacy groups to leverage their expertise and expand their reach.

        By working together, these departments can create a more holistic and inclusive wellness experience for all students.

        For example, wellness centers can team up with accessibility services to ensure fitness programs are inclusive and adaptive for students with disabilities.

        Meanwhile, counseling centers can provide mental health support tailored to students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the comprehensive care they need.

        Creating an Integrated Health Strategy

        Physical Activity

        Early death, dementia, and Alzheimer’s risk can be reduced by up to a 30% among people who regularly exercise.

        Some inclusive activities your campus may consider:

        • A walking club
        • Chair boxing
        • Swimming
        • Gardening club
        • Seated sports
        • Rower cycling
        • Water aerobics
        • Arm bicycling

        Adapting physical activities to meet diverse needs requires creativity and flexibility.

        With a little innovation, most activities can be modified to accommodate different abilities and preferences.

        Whether it’s adjusting intensity, providing alternative equipment, or offering modifications to the environment, inclusive programming ensures that all students can participate!

        Nutrition Promotion

        Promoting wellness amongst students with disabilities is not limited to physical activity.

        Ensuring that students are well-informed about their nutrition and having accessible, nutritious food on campus is also crucial.

        Since the gastrointestinal tract is responsible for about 95% of serotonin production, it’s evident that there exists a correlation between food and mental health.

        Ensure healthy choices such as fruits and vegetables are placed in high-traffic areas within food halls.

        Moreover, limit the amount of processed foods on campus, and ensure that healthy options are as affordable as possible – even lowering costs by 10% could make a positive impact!

        Mental Health Support

        A recent survey found that 40% of college students considered dropping out in the past six months due to mental health concerns, highlighting the critical need for accessible counseling services.

        Colleges can make counseling services more accessible by:

        • Providing options such as remote sessions
        • Ensuring physical spaces are wheelchair accessible
        • Offering materials in various formats to accommodate different disabilities

        By incorporating these strategies, you can significantly enhance the overall well-being and academic success of your students.

        Measuring Success

        By leveraging technology, colleges can track and analyze student engagement in wellness programs more effectively.

        This data can reveal valuable insights into which student groups may be underrepresented in these programs, allowing colleges to identify areas for improvement and tailor their approach to better serve specific student populations, including those with disabilities.

        Moreover, reporting available through your EHR and other campus systems can facilitate ongoing assessment and adjustment of your wellness initiatives, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently, and interventions are targeted where they are most needed.

        Learn more about the power of reporting here.

        Key Takeaways

        Making wellness activities inclusive and accessible takes a multi-pronged approach, but the rewards are significant.

        By embracing these practices, colleges can ensure every student thrives.

        Explore how the College of Coastal Georgia leverages our tools to support Accessibility Services.

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        Six Ways Software Can Help Your School Manage Accommodation Requests

        The number of students who registered for accommodations at Texas A&M tripled between 2010 and 2020. With the increasing number of students requesting accommodations, schools must implement effective systems to optimize this process.

        This is where tools like our accessibility services software can come into play. Let’s explore the features that can make the biggest difference for your team:

        1. Secure Messaging

        One of the key benefits of using accessibility services software is the ability for staff and students to communicate securely.  The software provides a secure messaging platform that allows for encrypted communication between students, staff, and healthcare providers. This ensures that confidential information remains protected and only accessible to authorized individuals.

        2. Self-Scheduling Appointments

        Gone are the days of long waiting times and scheduling conflicts. Students can easily schedule their appointments for accommodation services at their own convenience. This not only streamlines the appointment booking process but also empowers students to take control of their needs and well-being.

        However, the benefits of self-scheduling extend beyond just convenience for students. The accommodation services staff also reap the benefits of this innovative feature. By having a clear overview of scheduled consultations and testing appointments, staff members can stay organized and allocate resources efficiently.

        Learn more about the benefits of Patient Portals here.

        3. Documentation Abilities

        Custom Templates

        Accurate and comprehensive documentation is crucial for staff to effectively manage accommodations for students. With appropriate tools in place, staff members can create custom templates and forms to manage various accommodation requests, allowing for a more personalized and efficient approach to documentation.

        Memorandum of Accommodations

        Moreover, staff can leverage this software to generate and securely store a Memo of Accommodations for each student. Plus, these documents can be securely messaged to the student once they have been finalized.

        4. Simplified Clinic Management

        SIS Interface

        Integrating this tool with your Student Information System streamlines clinic management and improves efficiency. The integration eliminates the need for duplicate data entry, as student demographic information is automatically pulled in from the SIS.

        Automated Task Reminders

        Moreover, automated task reminders help staff stay organized. Reminders can be set for various tasks, such as following up with students, scheduling appointments, or reviewing accommodation requests. This helps to prevent any missed or delayed actions, ensuring that students receive timely and appropriate support.

        Inter-Clinic Collaboration

        Furthermore, accessibility services software allows for inter-clinic collaboration. Different departments and clinics within the college can easily share information and collaborate on accommodation plans for students. This promotes a coordinated approach to support and ensures that students’ needs are addressed holistically.

        5. Robust Reporting Capabilities

        Cross-Clinic Data and Trends

        Utilizing software also allows for powerful reporting capabilities that can enable staff to analyze cross-clinic data and identify trends. This information can be used to better understand student needs, make data-driven decisions, and improve the overall quality of accommodation services.

        Easy End-of-Year Reports

        In addition, generating end-of-year reports becomes a breeze. Software can automatically compile relevant data and generate comprehensive reports, saving valuable time and effort for staff. These reports can be used for internal review, resource planning, or communicating outcomes and trends to college administrators and other stakeholders.

        Uncover the impact of utilizing software-generated reporting throughout your entire campus.

        6. Safeguarding Student Health Information

        Lastly, using software (rather than paper and email-based systems) ensures compliance with HIPAA. A software system provides the necessary safeguards to maintain the privacy and security of sensitive student data, helping colleges avoid legal repercussions and safeguard student trust.

        Take a deeper look into how EHRs safeguard student privacy.

        Key Takeaways

        The benefits of using accommodation services software on college campuses are significant. From secure messaging to efficient reporting, accommodations management software streamlines processes enhances communication, and promotes data privacy. By implementing this tool, colleges can ensure a seamless and effective accommodation experience for students, ultimately contributing to their academic success and well-being.

        Interested in learning more? Connect with our team to see Medicat’s Accessibility Services Management Software in action!

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