Implementing Accommodations

The following points are steps to one can make to ensure accommodations are implemented effectively:

  1. Understand your accommodations:
    • Example: If you have extended time for exams, know exactly how much extra time you are entitled to and any specific conditions (e.g., separate room).
  2. Communicate early:
    • Example: At the start of the semester, email your professors with your accommodation letter and request a meeting to discuss how your needs can be met in their class.
  3. Regular check-ins:
    • Example: Schedule periodic meetings with your professors or the disability services office to review how the accommodations are working and address any issues.
  4. Document everything:
    • Example: Keep a record of all communications with faculty and the disability services office, including emails and meeting notes.
  5. Seek Feedback
    • Example: Ask your professors for feedback on how the accommodations are working from their perspective and if they have any suggestions for improvement.

Approaching Faculty for Modifications

  1. Be specific and clear:
    • Example: “Professor Smith, I noticed that the extended time for exams is helping, but I am still struggling with the noise in the testing center. Could we arrange for a quieter space?”
  2. Provide context:
    • Example: “I have a hearing impairment, and the background noise in the classroom makes it difficult for me to follow lectures. Could we explore options like using a microphone or providing lecture notes in advance?”
  3. Suggest solutions:
    • Example: “I find it challenging to keep up with the fast pace of the lectures. Could we record the sessions so I can review them later?”
  4. Be respectful and professional:
    • Example: “I appreciate your support with my accommodations. I wanted to discuss a few adjustments that could further help me succeed in your class.”
  5. Follow up:
    • Example: After discussing modifications, send a follow-up email summarizing the agreed-upon changes and thanking the professor for their assistance

Additional Tips

  • Use campus resources: Utilize the disability services office for support and advocacy.
  • Peer support: Connect with other students who have similar accommodations for advice and support.
  • Stay informed: Keep up to date with your rights and any changes in accommodation policies.

By being proactive and maintaining open communication, you can ensure that your accommodations are effectively implemented and smoothly make any necessary adjustments.

  • Follow Up:
    After your initial meeting, send a follow-up email summarizing what was discussed and any agreed-upon actions. This ensures that both you and your professor are on the same page and provides a written record of the conversation.
  • Communicate regularly:
    Keep an open line of communication throughout the semester. Check in periodically to discuss how the accommodations are working and address any issues that arise. Regular communication helps maintain a positive relationship.
  • Express gratitude
    Show appreciation for your professor’s support and efforts. A simple thank you can go a long way in building a positive rapport and encouraging ongoing cooperation.
  • Be solution-oriented and stay informed
    If challenges arise, approach them with a solutionoriented mindset. Instead of focusing on the problem, suggest possible solutions and work collaboratively with your professor to find a resolution.

Steps to Take if Accommodations are not Being Met

  1. Document the issues:
    • Example: Keep a detailed record of instances where accommodations were not provided as agreed. Note dates, times and specific issues.
  2. Communicate with the professor:
    • Example: Politely remind the professor of the agreed-upon accommodations. For instance, “Professor Johnson, I noticed that I did not receive the extended time for the last exam. Could we discuss how to ensure this is implemented for future tests?”
  3. Contact disability services:
    • Example: Reach out to the disability services office to report the issue and seek their assistance in resolving it. They can mediate between the student and the faculty.
  4. Request a meeting:
    • Example: Arrange a meeting with the professor and a representative from the disability services office to discuss the issues and find a solution.
  5. Seek support from peers:
    • Example: Connect with other students who have similar accommodations to share experiences and strategies for addressing issues.
  6. Escalate if necessary:
    • Example: If the issue persists, escalate the matter to higher authorities, such as the department head or dean, with the support of the disability services office.

Example Scenario

Scenario: A student with ADHD is not receiving the agreed-upon accommodation of extended time for exams.

Steps Taken:

  1. Document: The student notes each instance where the extended time was not provided.
  2. Communicate: The student emails the professor, explaining the issue and requesting a meeting.
  3. Meeting: During the meeting, the student, professor and a representative from the disability services office discuss the problem and agree on a solution.
  4. Follow-up: The student follows up with an email summarizing the agreed-upon solution and thanks the professor and the representative for their assistance.

Additional Tips

  • Stay Calm and Professional: Approach the situation calmly and professionally to foster a cooperative environment.
  • Know Your Rights: Be aware of your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other relevant laws.
  • Use Campus Resources: Utilize all available resources, including counseling services, if the situation is causing significant stress.

By taking these steps, a student can effectively address issues with their accommodations and ensure they receive the support they need to succeed academically.