Slide #24
Physical, Sensory, and Cognitive Issues and Challenges
Physical Issues
Think of the required physical aspects of the task. What will make the environment accessible, keep the student safe and allow them to be an active participant? What lab equipment must be manipulated?
Physical Challenges
- lift / carry
- stamina / endurance
- push / pull
- kneel / squat
- reach
- repetitive tasks
- fine motor: pinch / grasp
- fine motor: manipulate / maneuver
- gross motor
- sit in chair
- walk / stand
- balance
- bend / twist
- stoop / crouch
- other
Sensory Issues
Think of room temperature, noise, fumes, dust, odors, and allergies. Also consider the ability to speak and/or communicate, and the visual aspects of the task or assignment.
Sensory Issues
- vision
- hearing
- touch
- smell
- taste
- oral communication
- temperature
- fumes
- external stimuli
- lighting
- other
Cognitive Issues
Is the assignment done with a group, partner or individually? What memory and communication skills are needed? What is the level of complexity of the task.
Cognitive Challenges
- short term memory
- long term memory
- task complexity
- reading
- writing
- spelling
- string of numbers (math)
- paying attention
- visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner.
- self-esteem / advocacy issues
- behavior issues / acting out
- other