Course Accommodations

Academic Strategies Program

The Academic Strategies Program aims to provide individualized strategy instruction to assist students in understanding how they gain knowledge while helping them develop flexibility in their learning through guided coaching of cognitive and metacognitive strategies.

Adaptive Technology

Adaptive technology and assistive devices are available to help meet the academic needs of students. Technology that is available ranges from braille devices and software, to assistive listening devices, to screen magnification devices, and more.

Alternate Format

Alternate Format provides students with course content in a different format than a typical textbook or reading, which includes e-text, braille, large print, audio, and coloured paper.

Classroom and Lab Assistants

Some students with mobility disabilities or vision loss may use the services of a classroom or a lab assistant, to carry out the task expectations of the course. The assistant will act on the instructions and directions of the student and, in the case of students who are blind or partially sighted, will verbalize or describe the results to the student so that he or she can complete his or her lab report. The assistant does not 'do' the work for the student, but does carry out some of the tasks to facilitate the learning.

Course Load Adjustment

Students who are registered for academic accommodations may be eligible to pursue their education with an adjusted course load. Faculties are willing to take disability issues into consideration when determining whether a reduced course load is reasonable. Students need to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of studying at various course loads with their Accessibility Advisor.

Ergonomic Supports

Ergonomic supports are provided to students as a way to ensure that the structures (i.e. chairs, keyboards, mouses, etc.) complement their strengths and abilities and minimize the effects of their disabilities.

Field and Practicum Placements

Students with disabilities may require accommodation support in clinical placements, internships, cooperative placements, practicum placements, and other experiential learning courses. We have established a strong working relationship with faculties to provide supports for students' success in these placements. 

Sign Language Interpreting

Interpreters at the University of Alberta have the training and ability to match the needs of students, whether they prefer the interpretation to be in American Sign Language or a contact variety sign language. Interpreting services are not limited to the classroom only. Services can be arranged for practicums, work placements, or other campus activities and events if sufficient notice is provided.

Tutoring

If you need tutoring to address the impacts on your performance in the learning environment of a disability, medical condition, or the associated treatments you are receiving, you must discuss the matter with your Accessibility Advisor. You may be eligible for funding to cover the cost of tutoring.