Frequently Asked Questions

The Accessible Learning Centre - Come visit us!

Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions. If you don’t find the answer to a question that you’re looking for, visit the Ask a Question Section and we’ll be sure to get back to you with an answer.

QUESTIONS

1. What is Accessible Learning?

2. Where is Accessible Learning?

3. How do I register with Accessible Learning?

4. What documentation do I need?

5. Why do I need an ALC number?

6. Will everyone know that I am receiving
accommodations?

7. How often should I meet with my consultant?

8. What are alternative formats (for textbooks)?

9. What do I do if I need my textbooks in an alternative format?

10. Does the Accessible Learning Centre offer a note-taking service?
If so, how do I get a note-taker?

11. How do I book an exam?

12. How do I receive extra time for an exam? Can I write my exam in a separate room?

13. Can an in-class test be written be written with the centre?

14. Do I need to inform my professors?

15. Will receiving accommodation be expensive?

16. Will it indicate on my degree or diploma that I needed the assistance of your office?

17. What do I do if I have special housing needs? Can the university accommodate me? ***

18. Can I take a reduced course load?

19. If I register, will the centre discuss my disabilities and accommodations with my parents?

ANSWERS are below

1. What is Accessible Learning?

Accessible Learning provides services for students with identified specific learning needs, such as Learning disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorder, Psychological / Psychiatric concerns, medical concerns, and mobility concerns.

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2. Where is Accessible Learning?

Accessible Learning is located at 97 Dalhousie St. on the 2nd floor, in Room 214.

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3. How do I register with the ALC?

To make an appointment call 519-756-8228 ext. 5871

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4. What documentation do I need to register?

A clear identification and diagnosis of the disability, an indication that the disability impacts academic functioning, and recommendations as to appropriate academic accommodations from a registered health-care professional.

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5. Why do I need an ALC number?
This allows us to post your exam information outside of the office, and online, while keeping it confidential.

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6. Who will know I am receiving services from the ALC?

The service is confidential and even your note-taker will not be given your identity or information unless you choose to share it with them. Only our staff and your instructors will be informed of your accommodations.

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7. How often should I meet with the consultant?

You should meet with your consultant at least once a term. If you feel you need or want to meet more often, you can.

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8. What are alternative formats (for textbooks)?

Textbooks can be provided in alternative formats. These formats include electronic files, such as .pdf and .doc documents, which can be used with different screen readers, or which can be used to enlarge the text easily.

For more information, see Alternative Formats.

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9. What should I do if I need my textbooks in an alternative format?

You need to let Accessible Learning know as soon as possible when you know that you need your texts in a different format. You also need to let us know what courses you are taking so that Accessible Learning can have time to contact the profs and get the text list, and contact publishers to try and get electronic copies of the text.

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10. Does the Accessible Learning Centre offer a note-taking service? If so, how do I get a note-taker?

Yes, we do offer a note taking service. Notes are taken by peers in the same courses as you, and are provided through email. Like all of the ALC services, note taking is confidential. Your name will only be revealed to your note-taker if you agree to it. Note-takers have signed confidentiality agreements.

You can begin to receive note taking services by contacting Angel Evans in Accessible Learning. You will need to complete the form for note-taking and submit it to her.

Click here for more information

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11. How do I book an exam?

Fill out a form in the office for all of your exams in the ALC. The forms can be downloaded below, or from the forms page. Alternately, you can complete the online booking form. In either case, a confirmation will be provided.

Midterm booking form    - Must be submitted by the midterm exam booking deadline
                                                                              NO Exceptions

Final exam booking form   - Must be submitted by the final exam booking deadline
                                                                             NO Exceptions

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12. How do I receive extra time for an exam? Can I write my exam in a separate room?

Discuss needing additional time to complete exams with your consultant and they will recommend what is appropriate based on your documentation.
You may be able to write your exam in a separate room, depending on your needs. You may also discuss this with a consultant.

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13. Can an in-class test be written with the centre?

Yes, if your test is at least 30 minutes in length and you book it in advance like a midterm you will receive the accommodations approved by your consultant.

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14. Do I need to inform my professors?

It’s recommended you talk to your instructors about your needs at the beginning of the term. Accessible Learning will notify professors of approved accommodations and when you book to write a test or exam through the Centre.

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15. Will receiving accommodation be expensive?

There is no fee for the use of our office. In addition, there are bursaries available to help pay for tutors, assessments and other costs related to your disability.

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16. Will it indicate on my degree or diploma that I required assistance from your office?

No. Registration with Accessible Learning is separate from your academic student record.

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17. What do I do if I require supports for residence? Can the university accommodate me?

You need to explain your needs on the Residence Application and then contact the Accessible Learning Consultant. Your documentation must be received in Accessible Learning by the Residence deadline in order to be approved.

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18. Can I take a reduced course load?

For some conditions and functional limitations, a reduced course load can be sonsidered an appropriate accommodation. It is important to discuss this with an academic advisor as well as with your AL Consultant for approval.

Reducing a course load may have financial implications if you are a loan or bursary recipient. The Student Awards Office can clarify the potential impact of a reduced course load on your personal circumstances.

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19. If I register, will the centre discuss my disabilities and accommodations with my parents?

No. Legally we are not allowed to release any information at all to your parents. What you tell them is entirely up to you. We are only allowed to discuss your matters with you, or others who work in the office and have signed confidentiality agreements.

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