HOW CAN STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT DISABILITY SUPPORT SERVICES?

During the intake process, students should receive information about DSS and the importance of self-identification. In the classroom, instructors are encouraged to place the following statement on their syllabi:

"If you need an accommodation because of a documented disability, you are required to register with Disability Support Services at the beginning of each semester. If you will require assistance during an emergency evacuation, notify your instructor immediately. Look for evacuation procedures posted in your classrooms."

WHAT ARE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE FACULTY AND STAFF?

The College as a whole is legally and ethically obligated to provide effective and reasonable accommodations to students with disabilities. At the same time, faculty and staff should encourage students to advocate for themselves.

Faculty and staff are responsible for creating student awareness of DSS. Students with disabilities are not required to work with DSS if they are not requesting accommodations. DSS must protect the student's right to confidentiality and will request only relevant medical and psychological documentation for determining accommodations. On the basis of documented disability, DSS will determine reasonable accommodations, which the ADA, Section 504, and case law require faculty and staff to provide.

Accommodations must not alter the fundamental nature of the course or program, and essential courses will not be waived. The purpose of academic accommodations is to provide equal access. DSS, in consultation with the student, will consider past educational accommodations and current professional recommendations before developing its own reasonable and effective accommodations. These accommodations may not be identical to previous accommodations or recommendations. Faculty and staff may direct their questions to DSS.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ADMINISTERING TESTS TO STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES?

Instructors have the "bottom-line" authority for test administration. DSS, however, may more easily provide the equipment and/or testing conditions required. Test security should be maintained in the delivery and return of all tests. In addition, professionals should monitor students receiving testing modifications.

WHAT ARE "REASONABLE" ACCOMMODATIONS BASED ON INDIVIDUAL NEED AND DOCUMENTATION?

The ADA states that "reasonable accommodations" must be provided on a case-by-case basis to people with disabilities so that they might enjoy the same privileges and benefits available to students without disabilities. Accommodations must be reasonable and effective. Faculty may wish to implement the following general suggestions advocated by colleges and universities nationwide:

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FACULTY:

• Allow for early introduction of the syllabus, course reading lists, and upcoming assignments so that preparation can begin prior to the course. Include the disability statement on each syllabus. (See the statement in the box above.)
• Encourage students to meet with you during the first week of classes to discuss accommodations in testing, assignments, presentations, note taking, or seating arrangements.
• Begin lectures/discussions with review and overview of topics to be covered.
• Use the board or projector to outline lecture material.
• Allow time for emphasizing main points and key concepts orally in lecture.
• When appropriate, allow use of electronic spelling devices, tape recording of classes or copies of class lectures, dictionaries, calculators, and computers.
• Allow for appropriate testing accommodations. DSS may recommend accommodations, such as extended time for tests and proctored exams in a quiet room.

DSS can work with faculty, staff, and students to determine what accommodations are appropriate in particular situations.

ADA QUIZ QUESTION # TWO
Which of these exams may allow reasonable accommodations--such as extended (1.5 or 2.0) time-to qualified students with disabilities?

1. ASSET Placement Test
2. CPA Exam
   
3. Nursing Certification Exams
4. GED
   
5. SAT/ACT
6. All of these

Answer: All of these