What are "accommodations" in special education?

Accommodations in special education refer to modifications that are made to the environment, curriculum, or assessments to support students with disabilities in accessing the same educational opportunities as their peers. These adjustments can include alterations in the way instruction is delivered, the manner in which assessments are conducted, or changes in the classroom setting to create a more supportive learning atmosphere.

For instance, accommodations might involve providing extended time for tests, simplifying language used in instructions, or allowing a student to use assistive technology. The goal of these accommodations is to level the playing field, ensuring that students with diverse needs can demonstrate their knowledge and skills effectively.

This understanding of accommodations contrasts with other options presented. Changes to the scoring rubric alone focus specifically on evaluation methods rather than broad support strategies. Specialized training for educators plays a vital role in understanding and implementing effective teaching strategies, but it does not define accommodations directly. Lastly, resources focused solely on low-income students do not encompass the broader scope of accommodations that apply to varied student needs across all economic backgrounds.