What is ProjectENABLE?
From the website: “Our vision is to provide
professional development for library professionals from all types of libraries
in order to build capacity for providing equitable access and services to
students with disabilities, an underserved population. Project ENABLE training
is intended to (1) raise the level of librarians' understanding of and
sensitivity for the library and information needs of students with disabilities
and (2) foster their ability to develop programs and services, provide adequate
facilities, and select appropriate resources and technologies to meet those
needs.”
Last semester I had the opportunity
to complete the training modules for ProjectENABLE for one of my initial
licensure courses. While my experience with my son, who is on the autism
spectrum, has helped me have an understanding of some of the needs of students
with autism, this website deals with more than just that. Topics discussed
include individuals who are hearing impaired or visually impaired, have
dyslexia, ADHD or autism, and those who might have physical disabilities.
The first module discusses ways in which libraries can promote
self-determination in students, as well as defining what each disability looks
like and basic accommodations that can be made for each within the library. Subsequent modules go
into greater detail regarding accommodations and provide examples of best practices when designing lessons for all students in
the library. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is introduced and discussed as being extremely valuable in planning inclusive library lessons. Scenarios are presented throughout the modules and space is provided for librarians to brainstorm ways in which they would handle the situation in their own library and changes they might make for the future. Examples are also provided for each scenario. This module also includes a helpful link to the CAST
website for more details and in-depth discussions regarding UDL.
Even if you think that your library
is inclusive, I encourage all librarians to visit ProjectENABLE and either complete the training
modules or access the other resources they have provided. For me this website was extremely helpful and provided a wealth of
information that I had not known previously.
ProjectENABLE training modules can be accessed here:
To test to see if your library is inclusive check out this
post:
www.alsc.ala.org/blog/2012/04/top-ten-ways-to-tell-if-your-library-is-inclusive/
ProjectENABLE
For more information on UDL visit:
www.cast.org
Thanks for posting this, Lori! I had cursory training for how to accommodate special needs students when I got my initial licensure, but I feel underprepared as a librarian this year. I have several inclusion classes where I teach students with physical disabilities, ADHD, and students on the Autism spectrum. I also have a self-contained class of middle school students who come to the library weekly to do a lesson and check out books. Some of these students are nonverbal, and few can express themselves in writing. I struggle to judge what their needs are and how I can help them access the library. I will definitely be checking out Project ENABLE!
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