NSU's RiverHawks Scholar Program opens Independent Learning Lab

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University’s (NSU) RiverHawks Scholar Program (RSP) has opened its new Independent Learning Lab House, an experiential learning space designed to help students with intellectual or developmental disabilities develop and apply practical skills for greater independence.

The lab was established through the Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities (TPSID) grant, which provided funding for RSP to lease a house off campus. The space gives students an opportunity to learn and practice day-to-day responsibilities associated with maintaining a home, including organizing, cleaning, cooking, meal planning and preparation, laundry and personal hygiene.

According to Justin Chase, director of RSP, developing independent living skills is one of the program’s primary focus areas. While these skills have traditionally been taught in residence halls or other off-campus settings, those environments limited opportunities for students to fully practice routines and responsibilities. The house acts as a classroom where practical skills can be taught and learned.

“Rather than simply talking about these skills, students now have the opportunity to learn, practice and demonstrate them in an actual home setting,” said Chase.

The lab uses small-group settings of four to seven students to encourage strong engagement while tailoring instruction to each student’s needs and goals.

The house has also welcomed two RSP students as residents, providing them with an opportunity to incorporate daily living skills into their routines and practice the responsibilities they will encounter in real-world settings.  

“Ultimately, we all want the opportunity to have as much independence and control over our lives as possible,” said Chase. “Our role is to help our students develop the knowledge, skills, confidence and experience they need to pursue that same goal.”

RSP promotes supported independence by providing RiverHawk Scholars with modified coursework, career assistance and other individualized support to develop the skills and knowledge needed for personal, academic and professional success.

NSU President Rodney Hanley said the program recognizes that success can look different for every individual and that independence can be an important measure of success.

“Success means something different for everyone,” said Hanley. “Most of us think of success as making it ‘big’ in the world, but for some, it simply comes down to having the opportunity to make your own choices and live as independently as possible. Not everyone gets that opportunity, and I’m proud to see how our RiverHawk Scholars are building the skills and confidence to move forward.”

NSU was the first university in Oklahoma to establish an Inclusive Postsecondary Education program, providing a full college experience and expanded opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

For more information about the RiverHawks Scholar Program, visit nsuok.edu/RHScholar.

###