Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Disorder is a neurological impairment characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity. Individuals may be diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Other learning and social-emotional problems can co-occur with ADHD. Individuals with ADHD may appear easily distracted, disorganized, and lose things frequently. Employment, relationships, and other life areas may be affected by attention deficits and associated difficulties. A diagnosis of ADD or ADHD is typically made by psychoeducational or medical professionals following a comprehensive evaluation.
Attention deficits may impact a student in a variety of academic activities such as lectures, discussions, test taking, writing assignments, or fieldwork. Some students with ADHD will need academic accommodations to succeed in academic pursuits. For example, a student with ADHD might need to tape record lectures to review information that might be missed in written notes, or he might need a quiet room to eliminate distractions during a test. Students often are the best source of information about their needs. Instructors should work with each student and school disability support staff to determine appropriate accommodations.
Accommodations for students with ADD or ADHD may include:
- Extended time to complete tests or assignments.
- Notetakers.
- Tutors or other organizational supports.
- Reduced course loads.
- Preferential registration for smaller classes.
- Preferential seating near the front of class.
- Copies of overheads/classnotes.
- Private, quiet rooms for test taking.
- Tape-recorded lectures and/or books.
- Printed course material on audiotape.
- Written directions.