Let’s Talk About The Word “Accommodation”
Working from home has spared me the humiliation of asking for/explaining an accommodation. I’m grateful for all of my disability-related accommodations. I teach teachers to “accommodate” students...& something inside me dies every time I say the word…
The definition of “accommodation” implies there is a “common” way that we are accommodating to...a way something should be done/ learned. Accommodating means something special has to be done for you to meet a norm. Imagine always hearing that you need to be accommodated.. that you are never good enough as you are. And maybe... you don’t need to imagine.. you know how those constant messages eat at your self-worth.
Not only does “accommodation” mean you are not normal it means you need something extra. It is vulnerable to need help. It is very vulnerable to repeatedly need help to access what is considered “normal”.
What is considered normal and relative fluctuates with technology and education fads. Accommodations may be paper, oral, computerized, no test, etc. There is no mythical norm just acknowledgment that students have a variety of needs.. and strengths.
Accommodation implies a power dynamic. The accommodation provider is the keeper of mainstream culture and the one that grants access by providing it. Those of us who need accommodations know the powerlessness of not having access to what we need to survive. We live the frustration of being at the mercy of a system that reminds us that we are inadequate and othered. We hear assumptions, biases, & confusion. Those of us who provide accommodations need to recognize this power gap and steward it with care. What conscious or subconscious messages accompany our accommodations?
If 80-100% of my class has accommodations... Am I actually “accommodating” my students to me?.. to my understanding of the world or my own limitations as a teacher?
I’m looking for another word. One that gives rather than takes power. One that inspires us to learn rather than promote dominance. One that implies people have something to give rather than just receive.
What empowering words acknowledge our unique & amazing differences?
