Mobility Impairments

A mobility impairment can include a range of physical disabilities that affect an individual’s mobility and/or range of mobility. These conditions can include, but are not limited to: cerebral palsy, amputation, paralysis, arthritis, back disorders, neuromuscular disorders, or a spinal cord injury. These impairments can be permanent or temporary. Common mobility aids may include: a wheelchair, an industrial scooter, a walker, or a cane.

Considerations and instructional strategies:
  • Include the approved disability accommodation statement in the course syllabus. Invite students to contact you if they need disability-related accommodations.
  • Consult with SAS if your class involves lab work, field trips, and/or requires students to access off-campus work sites.
  • Contact SAS if you have concerns about the physical design and/or layout of your classroom.
  • Make sure the aisles of your classroom are free from obstructions.
  • Provide a short break during long class sessions.
  • If you would like to be at eye level with a student using a wheelchair or scooter, sit in a chair rather than leaning over or crouching.
  • If you are working with a student that also has a speech impairment, take time to understand the student. Let the student know if you don't understand and ask for clarification.
  • When in doubt about how best to assist your student, ask them. Remember that confidentiality is important; therefore, it is best to have the conversation in private (e.g. during your office hours).
Accommodations may include, but are not limited to:
  • Testing accommodations: extended time, reduced distraction testing environment, scribe assistance, and use of a computer
  • Priority seating and/or furniture modification (e.g. adjustable height table)
  • Note-taking assistance and copies of lecture slides
  • Lab assistant
  • Extended deadlines for lengthy assignments
  • Assistive computer technology (e.g. Dragon Naturally Speaking)
Resources: