Student Input

(gentle music playing) - These are some of our preference surveys we use with our students to gather their input for IEPs, reinforcers, and classroom activities. This one, the students fill out prior to the annual art committee meeting. It's just so we can gather information about their interests, opinions, and preferences. For the students that use this version, they can circle the images for their choices. (gentle music continues) For some students, this full version may be overwhelming, so instead we take the questions and provide the images as response cards that they can point to. We can provide one question at a time, change up the number of response cards, or break the questions apart over several sessions as needed to reduce frustration. Students who use a communication system such as this score board can respond to questions from the survey using their alternative methods. For students who are able to read and write, we have a version of the same survey where they can provide open-ended written responses. We get information for positive reinforcers by running preference trials with some of our students. We present the student with two objects or activities, then record which choice the student makes between the options. After running several trials, we narrow down which are the student's favorites and most motivating reinforcers. Other students are able to dig a little deeper and do some self evaluation. This survey we use helps the student identify the things that they're good at, like words, numbers, movement, or music. This information helps us differentiate activities in the classroom to their strengths and preferences. Additionally, prior to our meetings, we also interview our students. The interview questions help us gather information about their class preferences, the kinds of clubs or organizations a student wants to participate in, what adults on campus they like being around, and what school special events they like participating in. (gentle music continues) Lastly, we want our students to have input on the accommodations for their plans. We discuss accommodation options and ask them if they think that would be helpful or distracting, or if they would even be willing to use that type of accommodation. (gentle music ends)