Classroom Accomodations

Notetakers

Students with visual disabilities and/or orthopedic limitations which effect writing speed/ability may need the services of a notetaker* in the classroom. You may be asked to assist in this process by making an announcement regarding the need for someone to take notes for a student in the class, or by identifying a student in the class you know to be a good notetaker. Occasionally, the level of services required is such that a paid aide will be assigned to accompany the student to class.
    

*The stipend notetaker system allows students already enrolled in the class to act as a notetaker for another student in class in exchange for a monetary stipend, typically $100 or $50/semester.

Class Aides

The class aide provides the student with legible and organized notes immediately after class. The class aide takes dated, numbered, legible and accurate notes on individual lectures. He or she is also responsible for copying board presented material including illustrations, formulas or other lecture related information for the student.

Technology

Frequently students require use of special equipment in class and/or to take tests or complete an assignment. DSP&S loans various assistive devices to students, including such things as: tape recorders, talking calculators, magnification devices, wheelchairs, book carriers and other devices intended to make course material more accessible. Adaptive computers and other technical equipment are available for students who have been trained to use it in the Goleman Library and in the Cunningham HiTech Lab, Cunningham 220.

Testing Accomodations

Students with orthopedic, visual, and/or other "hidden" disabilities may not be able to take tests in the conventional way, particularly timed exams. When students have special testing needs, DSPS staff is available to assist in developing and overseeing individual testing procedures which are tailored to the student's needs. Confidentiality, security and proctor integrity are our highest priority. We require students to deal directly with the instructors about their accommodation needs at the beginning of the semester. Go to "How To Obtain Services" to view official authorization form, testing information form, and student request form (#6).

We provide reasonable testing accommodation. DSPS Counselors evaluate students and then recommend extending testing times which can be time and a half or double the time the classes is allowed to take the test. Individual instructors have the option of allowing extended time beyond the recommendation. If the instructor chooses to lengthen the time beyond the recommendation, the instructor will need to arrange for space and proctor using other resources on campus (i.e. the tutor center).