Table of Contents
- Canceling All Spring Semester Exams in the DRC
- March 19 DRC Update
- Information about DRC operations and accommodations
Canceling All Spring Semester Exams in the DRC
Due to state and University guidance related to COVID-19, the Disability Resource Center's Testing Center is canceling all exams scheduled to be administered in the DRC through May 15, 2020. This date coincides with the end of Spring Semester.
Additionally, no new exams will be scheduled in the DRC until further notice. Exams will need to be provided in the alternative instruction environment of each course. As instructors adjust course content to online and alternative learning formats, we anticipate students will receive more information about potential changes to exam administration. If students have questions about exam administration, they should first ask their instructors for clarification and expectations. After talking to their instructor, students can reach out to their DRC access consultant as necessary. Here are steps students and instructors should take to ensure accessible exams:
Student talks to their instructor and uses resources / technology available in their course.
If access is not possible using existing course resources / technology in the alternative instruction environment, the student contacts their DRC access consultant to explore remote accommodation possibilities.
If no remote accommodation possibilities exist, then the access consultant works with the instructor regarding alternative assessment possibilities.
Resources for instructors re. the DRC’s COVID-19 response can be found on the DRC’s What instructors need to know re. COVID-19, accessibility, accommodation, and the DRC page of our website.
Thank you for your patience throughout this process.
March 19 DRC Update
We are writing to provide you with an update regarding the University’s ongoing efforts to address the significant challenges presented by the coronavirus (COVID-19) as it relates to the DRC. The University continues to monitor the challenges presented by COVID-19, and we will provide additional communications as changes occur.
Per President Gabel’s message, the University of Minnesota has suspended in-person instruction, including field experiences and clinicals, across our five campuses and are moving to alternative instruction for the remainder of the semester..
Services provided by the DRC when you are engaging in alternative instruction may be different than when you attend in-person classes. We will work with you and your instructor to discern reasonable accommodations given the new environment.
The following provides information about DRC operations and accommodations through the DRC.
Information about DRC operations and accommodations
Appointments and meetings
- For the foreseeable future, the DRC will be holding all appointments and meetings remotely by phone or video conference (Zoom or Google Hangout).
- If you need to use drop-in, please reach out by email at [email protected]. If you need to reach out by phone, please call 612-626-1333 and leave a voicemail. Someone will return your call or respond by email as soon as we are able.
Accommodated Exams
- No. For the foreseeable future the DRC Testing Center is not scheduling exams to be administered in the DRC. Exams will need to be provided in the alternative instruction environment of your course. As instructors adjust course content to online and alternative learning formats, students may need additional information about potential changes to exam administration. Students who require complex exam accommodations should reach out to their access consultant to discuss their specific needs as soon as they are known. The access consultant will reach out to instructors to explore what is possible. Please be patient throughout this process.
Interpreting and Captioning
- If you are currently using interpreting and/or captioning services, please email [email protected] regarding your needs during this time.
Document Conversion
Document Conversion will continue their standard operations.
Access Assistance
- If you’re currently working with an Access Assistant and your needs change due to the shift to alternative instruction, please reach out to your access consultant as soon as possible.
Please continue to work with your access consultant if any additional accommodation needs emerge during this transition to alternative instruction.
As stated in the University’s FAQ: “The University is committed to creating an inclusive climate for all of our community members. The CDC offers guidance on countering stigma related to this virus. If you believe that you are experiencing discrimination or bias related to your national origin, race, or other protected characteristic, you may contact the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmation Action or the resources for your campus located below.”
If you need support during this time, please visit the University’s mental health resource page.
If you have specific questions about the University’s response to COVID-19, contact [email protected] and check for the most up-to-date information on the Safe Campus website.
The University community is here to support you as we move through this together.
Last modified 3.19.2020, 4:00pm