Helping Learning Disabled Students Prepare for College

Abstract

As more and more services are provided for high-school-age students with learning disabilities, it is only reasonable to expect many of these students to continue their formal education at postsecondary institutions. Few such institutions provide direct services to LD students, yet the need for such services appears to be increasing. To help the college-bound students with learning disabilities make an easier transition from high school, it is important that they first investigate the possible resources on campus and initiate early contact with each of them. The dean of students, academic advisors, classroom instructors and professors, the chairman of the special education department, and possibly the campus reading center or reading clinic all should be considered as primary resources and support systems to LD students. Prior to enrollment in a college program, however, students will need to learn and practice appropriate study skills. The student will need to become more independent in his or her work and study habits and be able to apply study skills in a variety of settings.