Your accommodation plan is unique to you
Accommodations are academic supports that reduce or eliminate disability-related barriers so that you can achieve your academic goals.
Accommodations are based on the specific nature of your disability, student need and academic program requirements.
Accommodations do not modify curriculum, course objectives, or change the core requirements of a program. Information related to your disability and accommodations is shared only with your consent. No information related to your disability appears on your Accommodation Plan or your academic transcript.
How the accommodation plan is made
Once you are registered with Accessible Learning Services, accommodation planning is a collaborative process with you and your Accessibility Consultant. Your Accommodation Plan will be determined through your individual learning needs, specific disability, the documentation you provide, and the expectations of your program.
During your course of study, your accommodations may need to be reviewed or revised depending on the demands of specific courses, field placements and other factors.
What accommodations might be included in my Accommodation Plan?
Depending on your disability, individual learning needs, and academic program requirements, there are varying accommodations for Tests, Academics, and Work Integrated Learning Experiences. Some accommodations may include:
- Additional time for tests and exams
- Reduced course load
- Assistive Technology
- Accessible textbooks & course packs
- Class note taking
Additional time for tests and exams
Students may require extra time for tests and exams beyond the original time set by Faculty. The amount of extra time a student receives, e.g. 1.5 x duration of the class test, is determined by disability documentation and individual learning needs.
Reduced course load
Students with a disability can take 40-60% of a full course load and still be considered a full-time student —including eligibility for OSAP. However, students who are accessing OSAP support must have a permanent disability to reduce their course load to 40-60%, without affecting their full-time OSAP status. Book an appointment with your Accessibility Consultant to discuss course load options.
Assistive Technology
There are a variety of technologies that support specific disability-related barriers. Some examples include:
- JAWS, screen reading software for students who are blind or have low vision. The computer’s Windows operating system can be controlled with keyboard shortcuts and spoken feedback.
- Read&Write software, text-to-speech software that can help with concentration and reading comprehension. Features are geared toward reading, writing and study skills.
Accessible textbooks & course packs
Textbooks and course packs in an accessible digital format: e-text, large-print, audio, PDF or braille materials
You may require your study materials to be in an alternative, accessible format. Your consultant can advise you about the best way to obtain accessible materials for your courses. A referral will be made for you to meet with an Adaptive Technologist.
Class note taking
Some students require assistance with taking notes in class. Note Taking Express is an example of a common note-taking service that students may access. This service allows students to audio record classes using a cell phone, tablet, digital recorder, laptop or other device and upload the audio files to their account to receive summary notes from the service provider. In some classes, it may be better suited for a Classroom Notetaker to take notes for you. Your Consultant will discuss these options with you.
