Academic
Success Center Support Services Learning Support Services
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Success Center Support Services Learning Support Services
- Mission statement
- Services to students with disabilities
- Specific accommodations
- Student forms
- Faculty information
- Faculty forms
Contact Us
- (413) 748-3747
Learning Support Services
Faculty information
What should I do when I receive a letter from Learning Support Services with regard to a student with a disability in my class? At a student’s request, Learning Support Services prepares an individualized letter to professors verifying the documentation of a disability and notifying the professor of the need for services and accommodations. We ask that the student meet with each professor to discuss the academic implications of the disability as they relate to the specific course and to request accommodations.
Please feel free to contact Deb Dickens, Director of Learning Support Services for additional information or guidance.
What should I do if a student speaks with me directly to negotiate accommodations without a letter of accommodation from your office?
It is the student’s responsibility to self-identify and request support services coordinated through our office. Learning Support Services will not support a request for academic accommodations without proper documentation of the need for the accommodation.
What are some examples of reasonable accommodations that an institution may be expected to provide to a student with a documented disability?
Academic accommodations are provided to ensure that a student with a disability receives an equal opportunity to participate in the institution’s programs and activities. Higher education institutions are not required to lower academic standards or compromise the integrity of the school or program. Examples of reasonable accommodations may include:
- Additional time to complete tests
- Testing in a reduced distraction environment
- Tape recording of class lectures
- Note-taking assistance
How can I show students that I will support their individual learning styles and needs?
A statement in your syllabus such as the one that follows will show your students that you are willing to work with them and are aware of the accommodation process: If you have a physical, medical or learning disability that may have an effect on your ability to complete assigned course work, please contact Deb Dickens in Learning Support Services located in The Academic Success Center, Hickory Hall 109. She will review your concerns and decide with you what accommodations are necessary. Note: Learning Support Services does not provide assessment testing for students.
Recommended online resource:
DO-IT Prof is a project supported by the U.S. Department of Education and managed by the DO-IT program at the University of Washington. Its goal is to maximize the success of students with disabilities in postsecondary education and, ultimately, careers. It provides resources that help postsecondary faculty and administrators more fully include qualified students with disabilities in their academic offerings.
Learn more at The Faculty Room.
Springfield College 263 Alden Street, Springfield, MA 01109-3797 413.748.3000
Page updated on: 04/17/2008
Page updated on: 04/17/2008