For Faculty
Fast facts
Q: How do get my exam to the ASC for student testing?
A: There are 3 ways for the ASC to receive exams – listed in order of preference.
- send as an attachment to
- bring a copy to the ASC.
- send a copy in a sealed envelope with the student.
After administration of the exam, the ASC staff will return the exam to your office – unless instructed to do otherwise.
Q: How do I learn about providing accommodations to students at EMU?
A: Contact the Coordinator of Student Disability Support Services.
Q: How do I understand my rights and responsibilities as a faculty member?
A: Although course management is clearly the domain of the individual instructor, faculty members are required by federal law to make reasonable accommodations in classroom policies and procedures for individual students who demonstrate need due to an documented disability.
Q: What if a student comes to me and says that they have a disability and need accommodations?
A: Refer them to the SDSS Coordinator. Ask the student if you may call the SDSS Coordinator and be willing to serve as an advocate in making an appointment. Until they are processed by the SDSS Coordinator and provide appropriate documentation and are given a Memo of Accommodations to present to you, no accommodations are provided. A student does not have a right to retroactive services. It is their responsibility to be on top of things and provide the information needed in a timely manner.
Q: What if I suspect that a student has some sort of a disability? What should I do?
A: As an educator you often see problems in the classroom with students who you know are trying their best but somehow are not producing to the level of their effort. Speak with the student. They are probably as frustrated as you are about their situation. If they seem open to doing something about it, strongly recommend that they meet with the SDSS Coordinator. You may even call the Coordinator to let the student make an appointment right then.
Q: If I have a student with a disability, do I need to rewrite my syllabus?
A: There are core requirements for each course and what is necessary for every student to be proficient in order to receive the grades that you determine. However, adjustments may be required based on the student’s documentation that do not compromise the content of the course or the requirements for satisfactory course completion. These would be determined through the SDSS office in consultation with you and the student. Academic adjustments may include adaptations in the way specific courses are conducted, the use of auxiliary equipment and support staff, or modifications that do not compromise the course content.
Q: Are there special strategies that I can use to be helpful to students?
A: Each student’s needs are unique. However, there are a variety of teaching methods and strategies that can make a difference not only for the student with special needs, but also can be helpful for an entire class. Research has shown that as an instructor makes accommodations for the student with special needs, the teacher generally moves toward becoming a master teacher in their field which benefits everyone.
Q: Why should I give “extra attention” to students with disabilities?
A: First, the law calls us to do so. But even more foremost in our minds is our dedication to the students here at EMU. We have developed a reputation as a University that is supportive of persons with diverse needs. We hope to be viewed as a “user-friendly” setting. As faculty and staff we are mentoring a way of life for all the students that is inclusive and benefits everyone and teaches some persons a new way of thinking and doing.