On July 7, Merriley Smith, a retired special education teacher, shared her expertise in teaching students with challenges in a roundtable discussion with CCQ instructors. We find that some CCQ students have a variety of learning challenges. Some have cognitive impairment from past drug use while others lack a basic education. In these situations Merriley recommends using techniques that special ed teachers use with students who have attention deficit disorder. Some of these techniques include using simple language, making eye contact, giving directions with a minimum of steps, showing examples of the quilting techniques being taught and offering appropriate affirmation and praise.
