1. Components of IDEA Definitions
Orthopedic Impairment (OI)
Dysfunction of bones, joints, limbs, and associated muscles
Dysfunction of central nervous system affecting movement
Adversely affecting educational performance
Other Health Impairment (OHI)
Limited strength, vitality, or alertness due to chronic or acute health problems
Many children with OI and OHI receive services under other categories
Some do not require specialized educational services
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2. Orthopedic Impairments
Cerebral Palsy
Permanent disorder of voluntary movement and posture
Little relation between impairment and intellectual development
Classified according to muscle tone and motor movement
Spina Bifida
Congenital defect in the vertebra that enclose the spinal cord
Can result in paralysis below affected vertebra
Hydrocephalic condition common; treated with a shunt
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3. Orthopedic Impairments
Muscular Dystrophy
Progressive weakening and degeneration of the muscles
Little relation between impairment and intellectual development
Spinal Cord Injuries
Caused by fracture, stretching, or compression of spinal cord
Car accidents, sports injuries, and violence most common causes
Result in paralysis below affected vertebra
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4. Other Health Impairments
Seizure disorder (epilepsy)
Caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain
Three different categories based on severity
Seizures can be controlled with medicine
Diabetes
Chronic disorder of metabolism
Body unable to breakdown sugar
Treated with insulin, diet, and exercise
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5. Other Health Impairments
Asthma
Chronic lung disease resulting in a narrowing of airways
Leading cause of absenteeism in school
Cystic Fibrosis
Genetic disorder affecting pulmonary and digestive systems
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
Children afforded legal protection under Section 504
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6. Characteristics Children are more different than alike
Classification based on symptoms of little use in educational planning
For no other group of exceptional learner is the continuum of educational services more relevant
Three important factors that affect educational needs
Age of onset - children with congenital or acquired impairments have different needs
Visibility - the visibility of impairment may cause some to underestimate the child’s abilities and limit opportunities
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7. Traumatic Brain Injury
Definition
an acquired injury to the brain
Resulting in total or partial functional disability
Adversely affects a child’s educational performance
TBI is the most common acquired disability in childhood
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8. Educational Approaches for Children with OI, OHI, and TBI
Often involve the collaboration of an interdisciplinary team
Teachers
Physical, occupational, and speech therapists,
Other health care specialists (e.g., heath care aids)
Children with physical disabilities may also need environmental modifications
Examples include, wheelchair accessible classrooms, or other assistive technology
Inclusive attitude on the part of teaches and non-disabled peers
Students should be encouraged to develop as much independence as possible
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9. Current Issues and Future Trends
Related services in the classroom
Teachers will need to make accommodations for related services in the classroom
New and emerging technology
Myoelectric (bionic) limbs
Robotics
Animal assistance
Canine helpers in the classroom
Employment, life skills, and self-advocacy
Vocational and professional opportunities must be expanded
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