Definition
According to IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), this group of disabilities is referred to as orthopedic impairments. These types of impairments come in many different forms and have different impacts on the individual. Orthopedic impairments are defined as any severe impairment that negatively affects a child's academic performance. This array of disabilities are grouped into different categories depending on the part of the body that is affected. These categories are:
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Neurological DisordersNeurological disorders are those that occur due to a problem with the central nervous system.
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Musculoskeletal DisordersMusculoskeletal disorders are those related to the muscles and bones.
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Other Health Impairments
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Teaching Methods
As with many other disabilities and disorders, each individual will be affected differently and will require different accommodations and education plans. Many of these impairments allow students to participate in inclusive, general education classes. Some students however, may strictly need to work in a special education classroom. Many students with these types of disorders also require additional assistance throughout the day. They may need assistance with mobility, everyday tasks, or monitoring their conditions throughout the day. Students with any of these disabilities will also have varying levels or academic ability which will also dictate their needs and what type of classrooms they can participate in. Assistive technology may also play a role in the student's education. With limited mobility or communication, technology can be a great resource to help students move around the school and communicate with teachers and other students. The key to helping a student with a physical impairment or any other disability, is to work collaboratively with other teachers, the child, and the parents. This collaboration will help ensure that the student's needs are being met both at home and in school and that the child is receiving an appropriate education.
As with many other disabilities and disorders, each individual will be affected differently and will require different accommodations and education plans. Many of these impairments allow students to participate in inclusive, general education classes. Some students however, may strictly need to work in a special education classroom. Many students with these types of disorders also require additional assistance throughout the day. They may need assistance with mobility, everyday tasks, or monitoring their conditions throughout the day. Students with any of these disabilities will also have varying levels or academic ability which will also dictate their needs and what type of classrooms they can participate in. Assistive technology may also play a role in the student's education. With limited mobility or communication, technology can be a great resource to help students move around the school and communicate with teachers and other students. The key to helping a student with a physical impairment or any other disability, is to work collaboratively with other teachers, the child, and the parents. This collaboration will help ensure that the student's needs are being met both at home and in school and that the child is receiving an appropriate education.