Instructor Overview

What is WSU ROAR?

WSU ROAR (Responsibility, Opportunity, Advocacy, and Respect) is an inclusive postsecondary education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). WSU ROAR students audit WSU courses alongside degree-seeking peers while building skills in career planning, independent living, and digital literacy. For more information, please see our website.

What to Expect When a ROAR Student Joins Your Class

When a ROAR student audits your course, they become an active part of your classroom community. Each student brings unique interests, strengths, and goals, and will participate in ways that align with their learning preferences.

Some students may choose to listen and take notes quietly, while others may engage in discussions, group work, and activities alongside their peers. Every approach is valid and valued.

No Changes Required to Your Teaching

Please continue delivering your course as you usually do while fostering a sense of belonging for every student. There is no need to adjust your schedule, provide additional one-on-one support, or change your routine in any way. The ROAR team partners directly with students to help them engage meaningfully with course content in alignment with their goals and readiness.

ROAR students are eager to learn and benefit from participation in your course. We invite instructors to partner with us in supporting the goals outlined in each student's learning plan.

You'll Receive a Student Bio

During the first two weeks of the semester, each ROAR student will send you a short biography. This serves as a personal introduction and includes:

Their learning goals for your class
Interests and strengths
Preferred ways of participating
What supports their success in the classroom

You'll also receive a photo to help you connect names and faces, bringing a more personal touch to your first interactions.

Supporting Inclusive Communication and Connection

Many strategies that support ROAR students benefit all learners and foster a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Here are a few helpful practices to consider:

Use clear and direct language. Clarity supports all students. When possible, use straightforward language instead of idioms or figures of speech, which can be interpreted in multiple ways.
Check for understanding. Simple check-in - like a thumbs up, a yes/no question, or asking students to summarize a key point - can make a big difference in keeping everyone engaged and supported.
Lead with Patience and Encouragement. Some students may still be building confidence in navigating new environments, routines, or social norms. A little extra patience and a warm tone can go a long way toward helping students feel secure and ready to learn.

Want more tips? Visit our full page on Supporting Inclusive Communication and Connection.

A Partnership in Learning

The WSU ROAR team is here to support both you and your student throughout the semester. We can help with:

Assignment modifications tailored to your course objectives
Guidance on feedback for audit students
Assistive technology support
Strategies for creating an inclusive classroom where all students belong and thrive
The WSU ROAR team is available to support you throughout the semester. Whether you have questions about assignment modifications, attendance, assistive technology, or behaviors, we're just an email away!

Quick Summary

No changes to your course structure or syllabus are required.
You'll receive a brief student introduction as the semester begins to help you get to know the ROAR scholar in your course and to understand their learning goals.
The ROAR team collaborates with students on assignment options, feedback, and course engagement. No additional work is required from faculty.
Your partnership helps create a more inclusive campus and gives students with intellectual and developmental disabilities meaningful access to college learning experiences.

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