Read about accommodation categories: teaching and learning, demonstrating knowledge, and meeting academic requirements.
Student needs will vary according to the nature of the disability and the individual course requirements. The University of Maryland Global Campus is not required to provide every accommodation that a student may request. Students should note that the requirements for accommodations for post-secondary education are different from the requirements for high school, and the accommodations themselves may differ. The student’s preferences are considered but are not determining.
Accommodations may take many forms and generally can be grouped into three broad categories.
Teaching and Learning
- Use of recorder for lectures
- Use of assistive technology
- Use of American Sign Language interpreters/transliterators
- Use of particular types of desks and other furniture
- Use of comprehensive syllabi (more detailed syllabi)
Demonstrating Knowledge
- Examination modifications (e.g., extended time or testing in a quiet environment)
- Extended time for assignments. Under certain conditions, extended time on assignments may be an appropriate accommodation. This accommodation must have supporting documentation. Granted on a case-by-case basis, this accommodation must be negotiated with the instructor in advance of the assignment due date. The student and instructor should come to an agreement on the specific amount of extended time and due date for each assignment receiving this accommodation
Meeting Academic Requirements
- Use of a scribe or note taker
- Use of assistive technology
- Reduced barriers for physical access to classrooms and other university facilities. Students with accessibility concerns should contact AS as soon as they become aware of the need for an accommodation
Examples of Accommodations Not Made
The university is not required to provide personal assistants, individual personal tutors, coaches or personal assistive technology. Whenever possible, AS will refer students to agencies that may provide personal assistance of that nature.
The university is not required to make, and does not make, accommodations that would reduce academic expectations or standards or eliminate essential components of any course. Open-book tests or exams are not provided as an accommodation but may be a part of any particular instructor’s methodology for instruction and testing.