Practical Activities and difficulties with Motor/Manual Dexterity
Remember, disability is a highly individualised experience. People with the same disability may have very different capabilities and/or needs, so it is always best to discuss any adaptations to practice, the environment or equipment directly with the disabled person themselves rather than making assumptions about what adjustments may be suitable.
Difficulties associated specifically with motor/manual dexterity difficulties may well have a significant impact on the disabled learner’s ability to participate in practical activities. The extent of the difficulty will depend very much on the nature of the impairment as well as the activity itself.
The teacher should discuss the intended skills that the practical tasks are aiming to develop, and seek alternative ways to allow the disabled person to demonstrate these. For example, if the teacher is using a practical task such as completing a treasure hunt as part of a team building exercise, the important outcome is not the facility to move around and physically collect items, but the process of engaging with and supporting each other in a group; under these circumstances, the disabled learner can find ways to support his or her team whilst they undertake the physical activities.
