Founder/Director Project Northwoods Nature Center Winter, Wisconsin, United States
Session Description: As a severely visually impaired ecologist who studies snakes, I have had to learn how to adapt my methods to accommodate my low vision. There are many students and researchers who have disabilities of various types (physical, visual, deaf) but we are often islands, making our own adjustments. This workshop would aim to bring together those with disabilities, as well as those experiencing limitations to their field work because of advanced age, to share ideas, test various aids that are available and form a network for future conversation and support. I envision an opportunity for participants to look at equipment that I use to help me in the field, lab and while writing publications. I also envision a network-forming discussion that will bring together those with disabilities. This would allow for a way to ask questions, develop strategies and test equipment. I also envision this as a way to provide information for advisors who may have a student with disabilities, whether an undergraduate or graduate students. The opportunities to just know there are others out there in a similar situation will stimulate a new group of individuals to continue and expand their research, despite potential limitations and frustrations.
