The impact of physical impairments on academic performance

There are several environmental and psychological factors that may affect the academic performance of students with physical impairments. Environmental factors (such as pain, fatigue, and absenteeism) and psychological factors (such as motivation, self-concept, and social-emotional problems) need to be identified in students with physical impairments, and modifications are required to minimize their effects. Our article presents a model of these environmental and psychological factors as they pertain to students with neuromotor, degenerative, and orthopedic impairments. Case studies that illustrate these factors and their modifications are presented.