Typical Accommodations

Accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis, considering the disability and course requirements . Common academic accommodations include, but are not limited to:

1. Alternative Test Taking
• Testing in a low distracting environment
• Extended time—typically 1.5 times
• Oral test
• Use of dictionary or spell checker, rephrasing instructions, and providing materials in alternative formats such as large print


2. Text Books in Alternative Format
• Braille, e-files, MP3 disc, or audio tape


3. Adjustments to policies, practices, or procedures and syllabus requirements.
• Examples: Flexibility in attendance, course substitutions, and extending timelines for completing assignments without grade reduction.


4. Provision of auxiliary aids and services.
• Examples: sign language interpreters, note takers or scribes, tape/digital recorders, and computer software such as the Kurzweil/ ReadPlease.

ReadPlease download and Kurzweil 3000 software is designed for individuals with learning disabilities or low vision. Both programs are available on all computers in the Library and on computers in the residence hall. Kurzweil 3000 computer software programs (http://www.kurzweiledu.com/downloads_kez3000.aspx) enable students to access written material on computer by listening to it read aloud and/or by following along the highlighted text. ReadPlease is a free down loaded program (www.readplease.com) that also highlights and reads aloud text.

5. Other accommodations that are supported by documentation.

Accommodations that will not be provided:

1. Personal devices such as wheelchair, hearing aids or glasses, and personal services such as assistance with eating, toileting, or dressing will not be provided. Students who require personal attendant care are responsible for arranging these services.

2. Accommodations that lower or change classroom standards or program standards will not be provided. For example, tests will not be easier or harder than the ones all students are taking.

3. Accommodations that would change the essence of a program. For example, a person taking a class in small engine repair who has limited use of their hands could not ask to take a written test instead of actually repairing an engine. The essence of the course is to actually repair the engine, not to talk or write about it.

Additional Notes:

1. When registering for classes, it is a good idea to let your advisor know that you are a student with a disability; however, typically, there is no need for students to reveal their specific diagnoses.
2. Instructors do not need to provide accommodations for students until they receive verification that the student has a disability communicated to them when they receive a Letter of Accommodation.
3. Apply for services early each semester—four to six weeks before classes start. If you do not enroll with the DS office a minimum of four weeks before the semester starts, some accommodations may not be ready until after classes are in session. Some accommodations take weeks to coordinate and put in place.
4. Requesting an accommodation or identifying oneself as having a disability is voluntary.
5. Reasonable accommodations are individualized to the person and the situation. Reasonable accommodation need not be the best accommodation available, as long as it effectively provides meaningful access to the program or activity.

Additional support services are available to all Northeast Community College students:

• Transitional studies in Math and English
• Peer Tutoring
• Writers Clinic

Submission of documentation is not the same as the request for services ; these are two different steps in the process of determination and provision of appropriate accommodations through DS. Students may submit documentation and not complete the application process with DS for accommodations and Letters of Accommodation(s); until that is completed accommodations would not be initiated. Accommodations can be provided on temporary bases until the student provides needed documentation if the DSC has reason to believe there is an existing disability.

Helpful resources:

http://www.readplease.com

http://www.kurzweiledu.com/downloads_kez3000.aspx

http://www.rfbd.org/

https://www.at4all.com/welcome.aspx

More Information

Maureen Baker
(402) 844-7258
maureen@northeastcollege.com