Evaluating the Learning Opportunities Program: Some Challenges and Lessons Learned.

Recent research indicates that, with appropriate instruction, accommodation, and support, students with learning disabilities can successfully meet the academic and social challenges of university. In 1998, the Learning Opportunities Program was launched at the University of Guelph to promote the academic and workplace success and social-emotional adjustment of students with learning disabilities. This multi-faceted program, funded by the Learning Opportunities Task Force of the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, includes a comprehensive and thorough evaluation component. This article describes the program and presents the details of the planned evaluation. Also included is a discussion of some of the challenges faced by the evaluation team during the initial phase of the program.