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FAQ

How do I access services? 

Please refer to the information under “Students” to start the process!

Why do I need to “register” with Disability Services? 

We ask students to use the AIM database in order to ensure that information remains confidential and is not part of a student’s academic file.  Faculty Notification Letters are generated from this information without disclosure of disability and to make it a more fluid process.

Also, as accommodations are modifications outside of specific parameters for a course or program and many disabilities are invisible, working through Disability Services allows the determination of what reasonable to happen without disclosure and with objective verification.

Why do we offer accommodations?

Educational environments are most often set up to privilege a particular kind of learner (i.e., one who can process information quickly, can write notes and listen simultaneously, can maintain concentration and focus for long periods of time without interruption). Providing accommodation does not give the student with a disability an unfair advantage. It simply alters the learning environment in such a manner that the student with a disability has the same opportunity to learn and demonstrate their learning as a student without a disability.

How do I talk to my professor about accommodations? 

Each student has the right to determine when and if they choose to disclose the nature of a disability. We know that communication is important and we encourage students to discuss their learning needs, as well as their strengths and weaknesses with faculty directly or with support from DS staff.  In talking with faculty, students should have some questions ready, such as:

  • This is my accommodation plan–I’d like to discuss it with you. How would these accommodations fit into your course? 
  • I regularly use (testing, computer, extra time..) how would this be implemented? 
  • How would you like me to let you  know about (testing, extensions of time, etc…) 
  • When would be a good time to follow up? 

If students have questions or concerns they can also connect with Disability Services and ask for support as part of these conversations.