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Disabled Student Programs & Services

Disabled Student Programs & Services (DSPS)

STEPS TO SELF-ADVOCACY

Take some time to think about explaining your disability and accommodations to a professor or counselor. What would you say?

Use the following sample dialogue.

Sample Academic Accommodations Dialogue

Student:

My name is __________. I have a verified disability. Here is my paperwork, which verifies my disability, and shows my authorized academic accommodations. My disability causes the following problems in learning: __________.

Student:

I’d like to discuss some academic accommodations that I need: __________.
(Include only those that apply to you. See the list below.)

Getting a note taker:
I need your help in finding a student who takes good notes in this class. The disability support office will provide paper for the note taker to use. Would you help me find someone who takes good notes?

Tape recording a lecture:
I am authorized to have a tape recorder to record your lecture. I will only use it for my personal study purposes.

Extended Test Times:
I would like to discuss the accommodation of extended time on exams. The disability support office offers someone to oversee or proctor tests in their offices. I can arrange to take the tests through their office, or we can work out extra time or alternate arrangements. How would you like to organize this?

Quiet Environment:
Because I am easily distracted, I need to take tests/quizzes in a quiet environment. I can use the disability support office or we can work out alternate arrangements.

* To the Student:
Practice what you are going to say to your instructors; BE POLITE. You should discuss and work out the accommodations together. If instructors do not agree with your accommodations, then politely thank them for their time and leave. Then contact your disability support office or your 504/ADA Coordinators for help in resolving disability related accommodations.