Terms to Know

Accommodations

In education, accommodations change how a student learns the same material as their peers, while modifications change what the student learns. Accommodations at the college level help students participate in grade-level instruction without reducing learning expectations. Accommodations provide equal access to learning and do not guarantee success. It is up to the student to request accommodations that they may need to help them be as successful as possible. Accommodations are provided to “level the playing field.”  They are intended to offset the effects of the disability and to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and skills. 

For example, a student with dyslexia might listen to an audio version of a book that the rest of the class is reading. Other examples include extended time, preferential seating, and large print text. 

Inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE)

Inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) refers to programs at colleges and technical schools that provide career and transitional training to people with intellectual or developmental disabilities to attend college with their peers. Many IPSE’s offer transitional training programs (typically during the summer) to help these individuals prepare for enrollment during the fall semester.

Individualized Education Program (IEP)

Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legal document that outlines a student's special education plan in primary and secondary public schools: An IEP is a roadmap for a student's academic success and development. It details the goals, accommodations, and services the student needs to learn effectively.  An IEP is developed by a team that includes the student, their family, supporters, and school staff.  State and federal law govern special education and the IEP process and give parents and guardians legal rights.

Modifications

Modifications involve altering the curriculum to better suit unique student needs to achieve student success. Changes to the curriculum, instructional materials, or assessments that alter what the student is expected to learn. Modifications are typically used when a student may be unable to understand all of the curriculum being taught. For example, a student might be allowed to provide an outline instead of writing a major project. Other examples include teaching prerequisite skills instead of grade-level content or reducing the number of vocabulary words to be learned.

Postsecondary education (PSE) 

Postsecondary education (PSE) is the education level that follows the successful completion of secondary education, often referred to as high school. Postsecondary education includes universities and colleges, as well as trade and vocational schools.

Section 504

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a law that ensures students with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities. Section 504 is broader than the eligibility criteria for special education services. Students may be eligible if they have a disability that limits a major life activity, such as learning, walking, seeing, or hearing.  Schools must provide accommodations to help students with disabilities succeed academically. Accommodations are typically provided within the classroom by the student’s classroom teacher and may include homework assignments, large print for printed materials, visual or audio aids, and testing.