The Role of Faculty

SDSU faculty play a critical role in the success of all students including to the success of students with disabilities.  While it is impossible to list all of the ways that you can impact the success of a student with a disability, here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

• Using a statement in your course syllabus, encourage and invite students to discuss the need for accommodations.  Here is an example of a syllabus statement:
  

  "If you are a student with a disability and believe you will need accommodations for this class, it is your responsibility to contact Student Disability Services at (619) 594-6473. To avoid any delay in the receipt of your accommodations, you should contact Student Disability Services as soon as possible. Please note that accommodations are not retroactive, and that I cannot provide accommodations based upon disability until I have received an accommodation letter from Student Disability Services. Your cooperation is appreciated."

• Educate yourself about what services are available to student with disabilities by reviewing this website and being open to constantly leaning from new resources.  Attend trainings and workshops when offered.
• Work with the student and SDS staff to provide accommodations such as notetakers, extended time on exams, and closed captioning for deaf and hard of hearing students.
• Remember that Student Disability Services is your partner.  We are always available to answer questions or be of assistance.
• Work with appropriate campus staff to ensure that all materials are accessible on Blackboard and that your courses follow the principles of Universal Design.
• Respect a student's right for privacy.  Discuss matters related to disability with students privately, during office hours.

To learn more about the roles and responsibilities of faculty and staff, view or download a copy of A Disability Guide: For Part-time Faculty and Graduate Teaching Assistants (PDF).

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