Access & Diversity
Disability Services
Current students with disabilities
What is accommodation?
An accommodation is an alteration in the "usual" way of doing things. The purpose of an accommodation is to allow students to overcome disability related challenges that impede their academic success. Some examples of accommodations include:
- alternate format material (such as Braille for blind students)
- private exam space for clients with attention deficit disorder
- note-takers for clients with hand/wrist injuries
Steps in determining accommodation
- If you are a student with a disability, first meet with an Access & Diversity advisor to determine what accommodations/services you are eligible for. Access & Diversity staff base their accommodation decisions on:
- impact of disability determined through the disability/medical documentation
- student's course of study and expected learning outcomes of the courses
You are encouraged to provide input on the academic challenges posed by your disability/medical condition. This information is helpful in determining which accommodations would be most appropriate for your needs.
- Next, notify your instructors of Access & Diversity's accommodation decision. Usually, Access & Diversity will give you an accommodation letter, which you can present to your instructors. You should meet with your professors to discuss your accommodations within the first week of class, if not before.
If you and your instructor agree, as is usually the case, your accommodations will be implemented promptly. If agreement cannot be reached, you or your instructor should contact an Access & Diversity advisor as soon as possible.
