Some of these difficulties can be managed by such mechanical devices as electronic "speaking" machines or computerized voice synthesizers. Others may be treated through speech therapy or other compensatory strategies. All of the difficulties can be aggravated by the anxiety inherent in oral communication in a group.

Patience is therefore an effective strategy for students with speech disabilities. Other strategies are listed below and some may require collaboration among the faculty member, the student, and the disability service provider at a particular college.

•Give students the opportunity —but do not compel them—to speak in class.

•Permit students the time they require to express themselves, without unsolicited aid in filling in gaps in their speech. Don't be reluctant to ask the student to repeat a statement.

•Address students naturally. Don't assume the "spread phenomenon"—that they cannot hear or comprehend.

•Consider course modifications, such as one-to-one presentations and the use of a computer with a voice synthesizer.There are many other medical conditions that may interfere with students' academic functioning. Some of their symptoms, like limited mobility or vision, and the types of intervention required may resemble those covered elsewhere in this manual. The general principles set forth in the Overview apply, particularly the need to identify the disability and to discuss with the student both its manifestations and the required considerations.