Managing Accommodation Requests
The Basics
- After a student generates their Course Accessibility Letter (CAL) for your course, you will receive their letter via email. You can also view and manage all accommodation requests in your courses using the Instructor Portal.
- Review the letter for the student's accommodations. If unsure of your responsibilities for that particular accommodation, review the instructions on this page.
- Collaborate with the student and our office to implement the accommodation in a timely manner. Consult with the student's Access Specialist if you have any concerns about the feasibility of an accommodation in your course.
How to use the Instructor Portal
The AIM Instructor Portal allows you to view and manage all student accommodations in your courses. View the tutorial for the instructor portal here.
Feasibility and Timing of Requests
Please view a student's accommodation letter as a communication starter to determine how best to provide an accessible learning environment. If you have other ideas regarding how to create access for your course beyond what is listed in this letter, we encourage you to speak with the student to explore alternative modifications. You are also welcome to consult with our office to discuss course design, learning objectives and reasonable access options.
If you have any concerns about the feasibility of an accommodation in your course, please contact us. We want to learn more about your course design and collaborate on a plan that works for everyone. Note: It is important to never deny a student's accommodation request without first consulting with our office.
Students can register with SLDS and/or request accommodations in a course at any time during the semester. However, students are expected to make proactive requests within a reasonable timeframe. Accommodations are designed to be implemented at the point of request moving forward. Retroactive accommodations are typically only given at instructor discretion. We encourage you to consult with us when considering retroactive requests.
Shared Responsibilities Summary
Students are responsible for:
- communicating with their instructors and our office throughout the semester
- requesting accommodations in a timely manner
- following accommodation procedures and expectations (as outlined in the SLDS student handbook and website)
You (the instructor) are responsible for:
- communicating with students and our office throughout the semester
- implementing accommodations in a timely manner
- consulting with us when you have questions or concerns about requested accommodations
- maintaining student confidentiality
We (SLDS) are responsible for:
- approving/training registered students for using accommodations
- providing services and accommodations in a timely manner
- consulting with students and instructors on how to best implement accommodations
- maintaining student confidentiality