Tips for faculty working with students with disabilities

Disability Services works with faculty to provide accommodations for students with disabilities. Students need to first identify themselves as having a disability to the service provider before obtaining accommodations.

However, some students may feel uncomfortable about discussing their accommodations. Disability Services recommend that faculty includes a phrase in the class syllabus to show willingness to work with students with disabilities and to invite students to talk about their accommodations. For example:       

"Students who require academic adjustments in the classroom due to a disability must first register with ASU Disability Services. Following registration and within the first two weeks of class, please contact me to discuss appropriate academic accommodations."

 

General suggestions for helping students with disabilities:

• The student may need accommodations in test taking.
• Allow audio recording of lectures.
• When questions are asked from the class, it would be helpful if the instructor would repeat the question before answering it.
• Allow the student to use a notetaking device, such as a laptop or an Alpha Smart.
• Let the student and Disability Services program staff know when the student is falling behind, preferably this may be done early in the term.
• Avoid asking students with reading disabilities to read aloud in the class.
• Avoid talking with your back to the class (as when writing on the board). Students with a hearing impairment depend on facial or lip reading cues.
• A "Buddy System" may be helpful for students with blindness and mobility impairment, especially during the active hands-on portion of the lecture.
• If you are using visual aids, describe verbally what you are showing in the class. Be specific in your descriptions. This is especially helpful for students with visual disabilities. Disability Services will work with faculty and students to produce accessible course material(s).

Feel free to contact Disability Services at 972-3964 if you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions.