Responding to Accommodation Requests
Read the Accommodation Letter Fully
If the request is straightforward and seems easily attainable, let the student know your course procedures and start organizing the accommodation. If the request is not clear, ask the student for more information or set up a meeting to clarify your responsibilities for the request. After receiving an accommodation request, note the Disability Resources for Students (DRS) Access Coordinator’s Name and complete any tasks for testing agreements and forms to fill out. Be sure to document and track all responses and requests even for temporary accommodations.
Meet with Students to Discuss Accommodations
If you need clarification about meeting the learning goals for your course or if you and the student have questions about how to implement the accommodations, you can set up a meeting with the student or you can contact their access coordinator for help.
Develop Procedures for Common Accommodations
Some accommodations are more common than others. Many students will receive notes in advance of class periods or extra time on exams. Suppose you develop standard procedures for how you will implement these accommodations in your course. In that case, you can refer to them and easily let students know about your course policies regarding their accommodations.
Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions
Asking questions can provide clarity on how to best support students with accommodations.
Keep in Contact
Check in with students throughout the quarter to see how the course access is going.
Example 1 Replying to Student Accommodation Requests (Source: modified from Dr. Elizabeth Kirk’s outreach templates)
Dear [STUDENT],
Welcome to [COURSE NUMBER]. I have received notice of your academic accommodations through DRS. Below I have described how I plan to implement each accommodation [INSTRUCTOR CAN ADD ACCOMMODATIONS PROVIDED BASED ON STUDENT REQUEST]
(Accommodation Request Ex: I post my materials to Canvas before each class period for all students. You can also take photos of the content displayed in class. Exams are in person in this class and students are given 150% time for exams and assignments. / You will be given copies of lecture materials.)
I would love to meet with you to discuss how you can succeed in this course. Please let me know how I can best support you with this accommodation.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. I look forward to having you on the course.
Thank you,
[SIGNATURE]