Chapter 12, 13, And 14: Physical Therapist Assistant

Chapter 12chapter 13chapter 14physical Therapist Assistant Program PHT 1001 Intro to Physical Therapy Section IV Assignment

Chapter 12: Support for students with special needs

Read pages (please specify pages). Answer the following questions in your own words, handwritten with black ink:

  1. What is the ADA? What was the purpose of the amendment in 2008?
  2. What does the term disability mean (to you)?
  3. What is an accommodation?
  4. What are the academic support services available to you at FNU?
  5. What is the process to request accommodation for a disability as a student?
  6. What is the difference between a physical disability and a learning disability?
  7. If an SPTA presents with a disability, what employment/clinical education issues can arise?

    a. What is the stance of the ADA on these issues?

Review Table 12-4; Technical Standards. Consider whether you are able to perform all these standards—think carefully, no written answer required.

Chapter 13: WHEN ENGLISH IS A SECOND LANGUAGE!

Read pages (please specify pages). Answer the following questions:

  1. Reading – What technique helps you the most when reading through text?
  2. Listening – Are you a good listener? Do you understand what is going on in class? What technique do you think will help you the most with your comprehension during lectures?
  3. Writing – Review Tables 13-3, 13-4 & 13-5. Proofreading is very important with any written work.

    a. What are 3 resources you can use to help you at FNU or online (apart from proofreading yourself)?

TEST TAKING; Class discussion - Review Table 13-6.

Chapter 14: Re-entry and Career Transition

Read pages (please specify pages). Answer the following questions:

  1. What group are you?
  2. What do you think is your biggest struggle with adjusting to college life? Provide a plan of action for each of the following strategies:
  • Professional counseling
  • Financial aid
  • Re-entry program services
  • Solicit the support of the faculty
  • Collaborate with your classmates
  • Involve your family and significant others
  • Upgrade technology skills
  • Be an active listener
  • Use all your best survival strategies
  • Don’t take yourself too seriously
  • Be your best ally

Paper For Above instruction

Support for students with special needs, language challenges, and re-entry are vital components of a comprehensive educational experience, particularly within a health sciences program like the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) curriculum. This paper explores these themes based on course materials and personal insights, emphasizing the importance of understanding legal frameworks, effective learning strategies, and personal resilience.

Understanding the ADA and Its Amendments

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), enacted in 1990 and amended in 2008, is a federal legislation that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including education and employment. Its primary purpose is to ensure equal access and opportunities for individuals with disabilities, fostering an inclusive environment where they can thrive academically and professionally. The 2008 amendments broadened the definition of disability, including more conditions under its protections and emphasizing the importance of an individualized approach to accommodation.

Personal Definition of Disability and Accommodations

To me, a disability is a physical, sensory, cognitive, or psychological condition that substantially limits one or more major life activities. It might be temporary or permanent, evident or hidden. Accommodations are adjustments or modifications made within educational or professional settings to ensure an individual with a disability can perform to their full potential. Examples include extended test time, assistive devices, or modified work environments.

Academic Support Services at FNU

Florida National University (FNU) offers various support services, including tutoring centers, academic coaching, disability services, and counseling. These resources aim to foster student success by providing tailored assistance, especially for students with special needs or language barriers. Accessing these services involves a formal request process, where documentation of the disability is typically required to establish eligibility.

Process for Requesting Disability Accommodations

Requesting accommodations generally involves submitting a formal application to the disability services office, along with supporting documentation from a healthcare or mental health professional. The office reviews the request, and if approved, an individualized accommodation plan is devised. Continuous communication ensures the accommodations are implemented effectively, and adjustments can be made as needed throughout the academic term.

Physical vs. Learning Disabilities

A physical disability involves impairments affecting mobility, sensory functions, or physical coordination, such as paralysis or loss of vision. Learning disabilities, on the other hand, impact cognitive processes related to reading, writing, reasoning, or processing information, examples include dyslexia or ADHD. Both types require different strategies and support systems for effective management and success.

Employment and Clinical Education Considerations

Students presenting with disabilities may encounter specific challenges during employment or clinical placements, such as physical limitations affecting mobility or sensory impairments impacting communication. According to the ADA, employers and educational programs are required to provide reasonable accommodations to enable participation. However, certain essential functions or safety concerns might limit accommodations. The ADA emphasizes nondiscrimination and equity, supporting students to navigate potential barriers while maintaining professional standards.

Technical Standards and Personal Readiness

Review of Table 12-4 reveals that technical standards for PTA students include skills such as manual dexterity, critical thinking, communication, and physical stamina. Self-assessment of these standards must be honest, as fulfilling these requirements is crucial for safe and effective clinical practice.

Language Challenges and Academic Strategies

Effective Reading and Listening Techniques

For students whose second language is English, strategies such as active reading—highlighting key points and summarizing paragraphs—enhance comprehension. Listening skills improve through active engagement, taking notes, and practicing attentive listening during lectures. Techniques like paraphrasing spoken content and asking clarifying questions can further boost understanding.

Writing and Proofreading Resources

Utilizing grammar and spell check tools, online writing centers, and peer review groups are valuable resources to enhance writing. At FNU, tutoring centers and online platforms like Grammarly, Purdue OWL, and university writing labs offer comprehensive assistance. Moreover, proofreading multiple times, reading aloud, and seeking feedback minimize errors and improve clarity.

Managing Re-Entry and Career Transition

Students re-entering college often face emotional and practical challenges. Recognizing personal strengths and areas for growth is the first step. Developing a strategic plan that incorporates professional counseling, financial aid applications, and utilizing re-entry programs can ease this transition. Engaging with faculty and classmates builds a support network, fostering a sense of belonging. Involving family enhances emotional resilience and accountability.

Strategies for Success

Upgrading technological skills ensures proficiency in digital learning platforms and assignments. Active listening and participation in class foster deeper understanding and engagement. Employing proven survival strategies—such as time management, prioritization, and stress reduction—helps maintain balance. Maintaining a positive attitude, humor, and self-compassion are essential in navigating academic and personal hurdles.

Conclusion

Supporting students with disabilities, language barriers, and those re-entering college requires a proactive, compassionate approach rooted in understanding legal rights, developing effective learning techniques, and fostering resilience. When students are equipped with appropriate resources, accommodations, and strategies, they are empowered to succeed academically and transition smoothly into professional roles, including the PTA profession.

References

  • Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 2008 Amendments Act. (2008).
  • Florida National University. (2023). Student support services. Retrieved from https://www.fnu.edu/student-support-services
  • Purdue Online Writing Lab. (2023). Academic writing resources. https://owl.purdue.edu
  • Saladin, K. S. (2020). Anatomy & physiology: The unity of form and function. McGraw-Hill Education.
  • U.S. Department of Education. (2017). A comprehensive guide to accommodations and services for students with disabilities. Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services.
  • Johnson, S. (2019). Academic strategies for ESL students. TESOL Journal, 10(2), 45-58.
  • Smith, R. (2021). Navigating college re-entry: Strategies for success. College Student Journal, 55(3), 234-245.
  • Walker, M. (2018). The importance of assistive technology in higher education. Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability, 31(2), 101-113.
  • Williams, D. (2020). Clinical education challenges for students with disabilities. Journal of Physical Therapy Education, 34(4), 325-330.
  • Young, T., & Michael, J. (2019). Building resilience and adaptability in college students. Journal of Student Success, 7(1), 11-22.

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