Faculty FAQs
General FAQ
Why are certain accommodations more extensive or nuanced?
When we determine accommodations, we do it on a case-by-case basis based on each individual student and their needs. Students can have multiple disabilities, so we set up accommodations based on what the student needs to have equal access to participate in classes.
Am I required to automatically apply extra testing time for online classes or online exams/quizzes?
Yes, if you are using online exams/quizzes in your course you will need to automatically go in and update the exam/quiz time based on the accommodations the student is approved for.
I don’t think a student will be successful with their accommodations, do I still need to provide them?
Yes, accommodations are put in place to provide a student with equal access to the course. This does not guarantee the student will be successful. Accommodations are meant to level the playing field so each student can create their own success.
What do I do if a student requests additional accommodations that are not on the accommodation letter?
Any flexibility or support beyond what is outlined on the accommodation letter is at the discretion of the instructor. The SDC encourages faculty to provide any support to students that they can. Faculty can also refer students to the SDC to discuss adjusting their accommodations.
What if a student's behavior is disruptive to class?
While some students with disabilities may need to occasionally leave the room or stand instead of sit, they are expected to be non-disruptive. Any behavior that is unacceptable for students in general, is unacceptable for students with disabilities as well. All students are held to the same code of conduct and are subject to the same disciplinary procedures.
Is the student's disability information and medical documentation kept private?
Yes, the SDC keeps all student disability information and medical documentation private. Information is shared only on a need-to-know basis.
Additionally, Instructors and teaching assistants must maintain a policy of privacy about the identity of a student, the nature of the disability and the accommodations required.
Accommodation FAQs
If there is a take-home exam and I receive a letter for extended time (1.5x or 2x) do I need to give additional time for this student to do the exam?
No, this exam is structured more like an assignment that is not completed in one sitting in a timed environment. If the student has an accommodation for extensions on assignment deadlines, then this is may be an accommodation that may require extending the due date on the take-home exam.
What if I have an exam online in which a student has a 5-day window to complete but takes 1 hour once it's started?
The student will get extended time on the 1-hour but not the 5-day window. If the student has deadline extension accommodations, the deadline extension may apply to the 5-day window.
Can I excuse an assignment instead of providing a deadline extension?
No, students with disabilities need to be provided the opportunity to complete all assignments in the course. Excusing an assignment can inequitably impact a student’s grade.
How do deadline extension accommodations work for group projects?
When it comes to group projects, the SDC advises both students and instructors that this is an opportunity to practice collaboration and group communication. The student should communicate with their group members about their accommodation (they do not need to share their disability). As the group is planning the project, they should try to see if it is possible to plan the work out so that the accommodation is not needed.
Ultimately, if the student with the disability needs to use their deadline extension, they need to communicate with both their group and the instructor about it. The instructor will grant the extension to the whole group.