The art of teaching is one that everyone can hone. For those with disabilities, becoming an instructor can
be rewarding but can have mobility and classroom space challenges. As someone who just started his
teaching journey as a teaching assistant, I will provide tips for those wanting to enter the field.
The first tip applies to everyone: go in with an open mind. I went into my classroom for the first time in
August and was preparing myself for what lay ahead. I was nervous about creating lesson plans, but
listening to what my students wanted to learn made everything much easier. It provided an exciting
element to the curriculum.
For those with disabilities, not straying away from your condition is essential. If you feel like it, being
honest with students about your disability and needs within the classroom can go a long way. When I rode in with my iLevel, I could tell that my students had never had an instructor who was disabled. I told them how I used my chair and asked them for assistance when we did drills and moved things out of the way. It helped and allowed me to educate my students through my presence.
Another tip is to be vocal about what you need to succeed with higher-ups. When I returned from the
holiday break, metal blackboard trays were on the floor near the podium. I had to ask other instructors
and the Office of Disability Services to move them because they impeded my teaching access. I struggled
to drive over them with my chair, and once I asked, it was resolved in less than a day.
A second instance is when I was tearing up the wall behind the podium because it was too close to the
wall. I brought it up to the professor I work under, and it was moved to provide more space for me to get
my wheelchair into it.
The last tip is to be understanding and show empathy to your students. Treating others how you want to
be treated is important advice, and students deserve respect. They are going through a growing period
and have lives outside the classroom, so remembering that is the key to success.
My iLevel has helped me become an effective instructor and has been with me on this new journey. It has
allowed me to be confident when giving instruction and discussing matters with students. For those just
starting, remember you’ve got this thing.