Trained student workers called Access Assistants help to remove barriers for students with disabilities. They may assist you with laboratory access, notetaking, library assistance, individual reading, and other activities. If you need to explore access assistance as an accommodation, connect with your Disability Resource Center Access Consultant or contact the DRC front desk, (612) 626-1333 or [email protected].
Information for Students Working with Access Assistants
- Arrive on time. If you are running late or will miss class, contact your Access Assistant directly or contact the Access Assistance Managers (AAM's) directly at [email protected].
- Introduce yourself to the Access Assistant via email or in person.
- The Access Assistant will ask for your preferences and expectations. Examples of preferences include:
- Style of Notetaking - electronic, paper notebook, carbon notebook, paragraph form, bullet points, etc.
- Style of Audio Description - Level of detail in description, include or do not include colors, etc.
- Level of Assistance in Labs - Take notes during the lab, pour liquids, use tools, other lab tasks, etc.
- Other Assistance – Guide or walk to the restroom or vending machine, etc.
- For in-class assistance, Access Assistants will let the instructor know privately that they work with the DRC. They will not disclose any information to other students in the course. If you have questions or concerns about this, please discuss with AAM’s at [email protected].
- Access Assistants will not participate in-class discussions or other class activities unless you require assistance to participate.
- AAM’s will request Canvas access to class material that instructors will need to provide.
- If you are a JAWS user, the Access Assistant can take you through the process of using Canvas for the first time.
- Give the Access Assistant feedback on the notes, description and other assistance. With feedback, quality of assistance can improve and be tailored to your needs.
- If the Access Assistant does anything to make you feel uncomfortable, contact the AAM's or contact your Access Consultant.
- Access Assistants will not work on their own personal homework or any other non-work related tasks when they assist you.
- If the Access Assistant is a reader or a scribe for you, they will write legibly and read at a pace that fits your needs as described to them by you. They will not contribute information or assistance regarding the exam topic.
- It will be your responsibility to let your Access Consultant or Access Assistance Managers know if any issues arise during your time with your Access Assistant.
Information for Students Who Want to Apply to Become an Access Assistant
Each year the Disability Resource Center hires undergraduate students and Access Specialists to serve as Access Assistants for students, faculty, and staff with disabilities. You can apply at UMN Careers. Search for the Access Assistant job openings in the "Equity/Diversity" College. If you do not come across a job posting, please contact [email protected] to inquire more.