Whenever possible equal access for individuals with disabilities will be achieved by implementing principles of Universal Design. When barriers still exist you may request reasonable accommodations as a means of securing equal access. Accommodations should be requested through Learning Support Services rather than directly to faculty members.
Accommodations are determined on an individualized basis. There is no predetermined list of accommodations for any particular disability. Accommodations are determined through an interactive process that begins during a student’s intake review with one of the Program Specialists. Accommodation decisions are based on the impact of a student’s disability, any relevant academic policies, and an assessment of the essential elements of a course or program of study.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines reasonable accommodations as the provision of services, such as interpreters, note-takers, extended time on examinations, architectural access, program modification and other adjustments. Participants must be otherwise qualified for the program in which they are enrolled. Neither Section 504, nor the ADA, requires colleges to lower their academic standards or substantially alter the essential elements of their courses or programs to accommodate students with disabilities. The requirement to provide reasonable accommodations is designed to provide equal access for students with disabilities.
Achieving reasonable accommodations for a student with a disability involves shared responsibility among students, faculty, and staff.
Learning Support Services provides accommodation services for students with disabilities. We discuss your specific needs with you each semester related to the requirements of your courses.
This begins with a review of the documentation of the disability and the basic standards of the program or course to be taken. Disability documentation must be submitted. If there are any changes in medical condition(s) or mental health functioning, additional updated documentation may be requested. We will consult with faculty/instructors, as necessary, regarding course requirements or faculty concerns related to the accommodations.
You will receive a letter with approved accommodations to give to each of your instructors. Please note:
- Accommodations are not retroactive.
- You must request accommodations each semester by completing a Service Request Form and discussing the request with a Program Specialist.
Examples of accommodations that can be granted if specifically justified by documentation include:
- Extended time on exams and/or a quiet place for taking tests (see Test Taking Accommodations)
- Permission to record lectures
- Use of a non-programmable calculator
- Use of computer based technologies for reading and/or written work
- Alternative format materials (textbooks)
- Large print (CCTV)
- Sign language interpreter
- Assistive listening devices (COMTEK)
- Reader/scribe
- Note taking
- Other
The final determination for providing appropriate and reasonable accommodations rests with LSS.
Temporary accommodations may be approved for conditions that may impact a student’s academic functioning on a short term basis.