Simple Solutions to Complex Problems: Hidden Disabilities in the College Music Classroom

Abstract

The word simple is defined by Merriam-Webster as “having few parts: not complex.” The word complex is defined by Merriam-Webster as “a group of things that are connected in complicated ways.” Although there is nothing simple about hidden disabilities, there are simple solutions that college music instructors can implement to make a complex classroom environment more inclusive and accessible. I argue that the solutions proposed in this article can aid students with documented hidden disabilities, students who have non-disclosed hidden disabilities, and through Universal Design for Learning (UDL), will optimize growth, further equity, and increase accessibility for the entire classroom.