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Text in audio format:
Text books are provided on CD for students requiring this accommodation
from Reading for the Blind and Dyslexic. In limited cases we can
convert written text to Word for Windows which can be 'read' by
a reading software such as JAWS. Publishers on occasion will provide
a book in digital format. In all instances the student must purchase
the text book before obtaining an alternate formant.
Tape recorder in classroom:
When determined to be a reasonable accommodation for students with
a disability, students are permitted to tape lectures. However,
they are required to sign a taping agreement stating that these
tapes are for their personal use only and will not be shared or
sold to other students.
Test Modification:
The most common modifications for exams are extended time and testing
in a distraction reduced environment. Arrangements for test proctoring
can be made by the student or professor through the Disability Services
office (7402). It is also acceptable for an instructor to provide
the extra time and distraction reduced environment if the arrangement
is agreeable with the student.
Students with physical or visual limitations may require a computer
to communicate answers on an exam. The Disabilities Services office
has a computer with large print to assist these students. The coordinator
for disability services will also read or scribe for this population
as necessary.
If documentation indicates a specific need for other accommodations
, alternatives may be considered. However, testing material in small
segments (testing one chapter at a time rather than exams covering
several chapters) and changing formats (from multiple choice to
essay for example) are not considered reasonable accommodations.
Extended time to complete assignments:
If an assignment is on the syllabus at the beginning of the term,
and explained thoroughly at that time, professors may consider this
ample time for all students to complete an assignment. In any case
extension of time will not be more than a few days or one week as
decided by the instructor. Should a student believe that this accommodation
has not been met the grievance process should be followed.
Access to appropriate tools:
Some students with specific learning disabilities may require a
dictionary, calculator or computer to meet the requirements of a
course or complete an exam. Conversation with the instructor, student,
and coordinator for disability services will determine the appropriateness
of these tools for exams. The primary concern is fundamentally altering
a course of study by using such tools.
Students are permitted to use laptop computers to take notes in
class when documentation supports this use.
Note Takers:
Note takers are provided if other forms of recording class content
have failed to accommodate. A small stipend is paid to students
who agree to perform this function. Professors may provide their
own notes if they so choose. Note takers will provide the instructor
or the Disability Services Office with a copy of their notes if
the accommodated student wants to remain anonymous.
Absences:
Attendance is an essential component of post-secondary education.
However, on occasion, we may request that an instructor relax their
attendance policy due to necessary, disability related absences.
This request will not be maid until the student has used all allowable
absences under the university and / or instructors policy. Students
who are approved for this accommodation are expected to contact
instructors in advance of an anticipated absence. In the event of
emergency or unexpected absences instructors and the Disability
Services Office should be contacted within five days of the emergency.
If a student is absent from classes for an extended period it is
recommended that he or she contact the Disability Services Office
for recommendations regarding withdrawal from classes.
Students need to be aware that absences will hurt them academically,
even if the attendance policy has been relaxed. Every attempt should
be made to attend classes. A relaxation of attendance policy does
not mean relaxation of course requirements. Students are required
to fulfill all course requirements and evaluation standards as specified
in the course syllabus.
Relaxation of policy will not be requested for summer classes or
classes with less than the standard number of class periods scheduled.
Assistive Technology:
- Tactile Imaging Capability - Adding texture to graphics for
visually impaired students
- JAWS screen reading software for students with visual impairment
- installed at 5 locations on campus
- Abby Fine Reader Software used to scan classroom documents
into word documents so they can be read by JAWS
- CCTV for vision impaired - Enlarges print materials for visually
impaired and those with dyslexia.
- Audio text books supplied through Reading for the Blind and
Dyslexic
- CD players specially designed to play audio text books
- FM transmitters / receivers for students who are hearing impaired
to use in the classroom
- Naturally Speaking Preferred - Voice to text software for those
unable to use keyboard
- ZoomText - Screen magnifying software
- Tracball - For students who have difficulty using a mouse
Priority Scheduling:
Requests for priority scheduling will be very rare. Students at
Methodist University register for classes through a personal advisor
who is available on a regular basis during the academic year. However,
we are available to discuss scheduling should the university procedures
present an unforeseen difficulty.
Priority seating:
Priority seating should be a necessity for students with hearing,
vision, and some learning challenges. It is usually easy for the
student to obtain the necessary seating in the class room. However,
any difficulties can be discussed with the instructor or the Disability
Services Office.
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