Using Your Accommodations

Outreach:

Once your notification letters have been sent to your instructors, it's your responsibility to initiate a conversation about implementing accommodations in each course. You can start by visiting their office hours or sending an email. Below is an example of an email template you can use to begin this discussion. Be sure to include a clear subject line indicating that you want to discuss accommodations, so your instructor understands the importance of the message.

Sample Email:

[Instructor name], 

My name is [your name] and I am in your [class name and number] class. You should have just received an email from the Student Accessibility Services office with my approved accommodations. I am emailing you so we can discuss how these accommodations will be implemented in your class.  

Please let me know a time that works best for you to meet, otherwise, I am happy to discuss these accommodations over email. 

Let me know what works for you! 

[your name] 

Understand your Responsibilities:

Creating a documented implementation plan for your accommodations is crucial to ensuring that you and your instructor stay on the same page throughout the semester. This plan should detail each accommodation, outline how it will be put into practice, specify the actions required from both you and your instructor, and note any course-specific restrictions.

To keep everything organized, consider following up with your instructor via email to confirm the details or creating a written document during your meeting. 

To assist with this process, we’ve attached our Accommodation Planning Tool, which can help streamline your discussion and provide a clear record of the implementation plan. This documentation will be a valuable reference as you progress through the semester, helping to ensure that all accommodations are effectively implemented.

1. Prepare in Advance: Before meeting with your instructor, review your accommodation needs and understand how they apply to the specific course. Familiarize yourself with any related policies from the syllabus and be ready to discuss how the accommodation may work within these policies.
2. Start with a Positive Introduction: Begin the conversation by thanking your instructor for their time and support in helping implement your accommodations to facilitate your access to the course. This sets a positive tone and shows that you are engaged and proactive about your education.
3. Communicate Clearly and Confidently: Approach the discussion with confidence and clarity. Be direct about your needs and how they can be met in the course. Use specific examples to illustrate how certain accommodations will help you succeed. (Note: You are not required to share your diagnosis or the specifics of your condition unless you choose to do so.)
4. Be Open to Collaboration: Be prepared to discuss how the accommodations can be implemented in a way that works for both you and your instructor. Flexibility and willingness to work together can lead to creative solutions that meet your needs while respecting the course's academic standards. Invite your instructor to share their thoughts on implementing the accommodations. You can ask, "How do you usually handle accommodations in your class?" and then offer your own suggestions. This shows respect for their experience while also ensuring your needs are met.
5. Express Gratitude and Confirm the Plan: Conclude the discussion by thanking your instructor for their support and summarizing the agreed-upon accommodations. For example, "Thank you for working with me on this. Just to confirm, I will have extended time for exams, and we will use [specific method] for note-taking assistance." This helps ensure that both parties are on the same page.