Hi
Michael Trott wrote:
> In a message dated 31/01/03 08:34:24 GMT Standard Time,
> [log in to unmask] writes:
>
> << a first contact (eg support service receptionist) who can filter
> out the urgent cases and arrange an appointment quickly where
> necessary. >>
>
> Ahh, you mean like a GP's receptionist ?
snip...
No - I don't mean like a doctor's receptionist. Typically, the
receptionist (an admin person - not a quasi disability specialist) will
arrange ppointments for clients on a first come first served basis, but
will have sufficient good sense to identify when someone has a problem
that won't wait. For example, if a wheelchair user turns up saying
that, as a result of a room change, he/she will not be able to attend an
upcoming lecture, then that issue demands immediate attention. This is
different to a visit by someone who feels he/she may be dyslexic and
would like to talk things through with someone.
I'm sure this type of provision is normal practice at many or most HEIs.
>
> Seriously though. It's a tricky dilema. Students do encounter people
> in the system that have a great deal of power but very little
> understanding of the real needs and problems of students. Part of the
> problem of getting support are the paperwork hurdles and
> non-qualified/experienced people they have to 'get past' to get a
> foot on the ladder.
>
> Some serious points: In the age of the telephone and wordprocessor do
> we need to put in another layer between us and the student? If we do,
> what are the pros and cons of doing so?
>
> My view of a GP appointments system is that it is there to manage
> demand, not meet the needs of patients. Let's be careful about
> falling into the same trap. It may not be a 'sensible' use of a
> trained professional support worker, tutor or assessor to be handling
> initial enquiries but we need to define the role of any intermediary
> very carefully and monitor it just as closely.
I agree with your objections to GP appointment concept. I
think, though, that the difficulties that you identify are more likely
to stem from a lack of provision (too few disability advisors) rather
than a shortage of appropriately trained gatekeepers.
Regards
Peter
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