GUIDELINES FOR SERVICES
This guide is meant to serve as an informational source and reference regarding
services available through Disability Resources (DR) for
students with disabilities at the University of Kansas. Copies of this guide
are available in alternative format upon request. KU has a "decentralized"
system, and efforts regarding disability issues and accommodations are coordinated
by DR. Each unit, department, and office on campus play a role in making the
university (campus and programs) accessible. It is an individual's choice whether
to self-identify, as well as if and when to use services. We primarily provide
academic accommodations such as assistance in physical access to campus facilities,
letters to faculty explaining suggested accommodations, extended test time,
volunteer notetakers, interpreters, typists, and readers. Accessible transportation
is also available for those students with temporary or permanent mobility impairments
who are unable to use the standard buses.
- THIS GUIDE IS TO BE USED AS A REFERENCE.
- THE SERVICES LISTED ARE THE ONES COMMONLY PROVIDED, BUT INDIVIDUAL NEEDS
ARE ALSO CONSIDERED.
- IF SERVICE REQUESTS ARE NOT LISTED, PLEASE TALK WITH THE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
FOR COORDINATING SERVICES.
- IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBLITY TO SELF-IDENTIFY, PROVIDE APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION,
AND EACH SEMESTER REQUEST SERVICES IN A TIMELY MANNER
HOW DO YOU QUALIFY FOR SERVICES?
To be eligible for services you must provide written documentation from a
qualified professional on the nature of the disability. Information should include
test results/report, functional effects of the disability and/or medication,
and recommendations. Once received, it will be reviewed and discussed with you
with respect to appropriate accommodations. These steps are necessary prior
to any services.
WHO CAN YOU TALK TO REGARDING SERVICES?
Any DR staff is able to answer basic, general questions and provide general
information. However, questions regarding services should be directed to the
individual responsible for coordinating Disability Resources,
or to the director of the DR. During the initial meeting, services and your
specific academic needs will be discussed.
HOW DO YOU RECEIVE SERVICES?
You have the right to choose what services you desire to utilize and when.
Needs may change or vary from class to class. Therefore, services are provided
once you, the student, make a written request. The Accommodations Request Form
(ARF) needs to be completed for each class that you are requesting accommodations
in. Accommodations are individualized to your needs based on the disability
documentation and the functional limitations in the classroom. Students complete
the ARF with his/her DR professional staff member. Depending on the nature
of the requested accommodation or accommodations that are time intensive (e.g.,
sign language interpreting, books in alternate format) students should request
services as soon as they register for classes. Otherwise, it is recommended
that you go to your class and obtain a course syllabus before scheduling an
appointment.
WHAT ABOUT NON-CLASSROOM ISSUES?
DR also works with students to identify and resolve architectural, policy,
and attitudinal barriers on campus. Such issues would include curb ramps or
entrance ramps, braille signage; identifying courses that satisfy graduation
requirements (e.g. math, foreign language); meeting with instructors/ GTAs/departments
to educate or sensitize on disability issues. We coordinate with other departments
regarding their accessibility and accommodation responsibilities.Because DR
has ongoing contact with students regarding needs and issues, the office has
a permanent representative on various committees that determine and prioritize
accessibility needs. In addition, we give input and make recommendations regarding
campus-wide equipment purchases. Since each disability group is unable to have
a representative on such committees, it is the desire of DR to be prepared
to voice the issues and concerns of all groups. Therefore, it is important to
share concerns, thoughts, and needs with us so that they may be presented.Information
about campus, local, and national resources is available in the DR office.
