In the realm of education and disability support, accommodations and modifications play a crucial role in ensuring equal opportunities and access for individuals with diverse needs.
While these terms are often used interchangeably, it’s important to understand the distinction between accommodations and modifications and how they can benefit students with disabilities.
This article will provide a clear explanation of accommodations and modifications, highlighting their differences and offering practical examples.
What are Accommodations?
Accommodations are changes made to the presentation, timing, format, or delivery of information to provide equal access to educational content without altering the core curriculum or lowering academic expectations.
The purpose of accommodations is to remove barriers to learning and provide support to students with disabilities, allowing them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills on an equal basis with their peers.
Accommodations do not change the fundamental content or requirements of the curriculum, but rather provide alternative ways for students to access and engage with the material.
Examples of accommodations include extended time for tests, preferential seating, use of assistive technology, providing notes or study guides, and use of visual aids.
What are Modifications?
Modifications, on the other hand, involve altering the curriculum or instructional materials to adjust content, expectations, or learning goals to better suit the unique needs and abilities of the student.
Unlike accommodations, modifications involve changes to the curriculum itself, which may include simplifying reading materials, reducing assignments or workload, modifying assessment criteria, or providing alternative assignments.
Modifications are typically implemented when a student’s individualized education plan (IEP) or educational needs require substantial changes to the curriculum to ensure meaningful participation and progress.
Differences between Accommodations and Modifications
important to note that while accommodations and modifications are distinct concepts, they are not mutually exclusive. In some cases, students may require both accommodations and modifications to meet their educational needs effectively.
| Criteria | Accommodations | Modifications |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Changes made to the presentation, timing, format, or delivery of information to provide equal access without altering content or expectations. | Alterations made to the curriculum or instructional materials to adjust content, expectations, or learning goals. |
| Purpose | Provide support and remove barriers to learning while maintaining academic standards. | Adapt the curriculum to meet the unique needs and abilities of the student. |
| Examples | Extended time for tests, preferential seating, use of assistive technology, providing notes or study guides, use of visual aids. | Simplifying reading materials, reducing assignments or workload, modifying assessment criteria, providing alternative assignments. |