Western State College of Colorado

DISABILITY SERVICES HANDBOOK 2008 - 2009

Accommodation Procedures: Alternative Formats Of Text

Students with documented disabilities that affect their ability to read print may be eligible for alternative formats of text. Disabilities that may affect the ability to read print include but are not limited to, learning, visual, and physical disabilities.

In general, providing text in alternative format is a time intensive process. Every effort is made to obtain materials in a timely manner and in the specific format requested. However, consideration will be given to the most expedient manner and format available in the fulfillment of student requests.

DS recommends that students who are requesting alternative text:

• Make an appointment for training from Disability Services (DS) to learn how to obtain alternative text.



• Submit an “Alternative Text Request Form” at least four weeks before they wish to begin receiving text.



• Be responsible for purchasing a copy of all required texts. Students may be asked to submit a receipt of purchase in the case of text scanning.



• Submit materials that need to be scanned or taped AT LEAST FOUR WEEKS BEFORE NEEDED. In some cases students may need to provide DS with a hard copy of the requested material. DS will make a “good faith effort” to obtain another copy of the textbook. However, if none is available, the student’s book will be cut apart to scan.



• Be prepared to provide their own playback devices which may include 4-track, tape players, e-text software, and RFB&D playback devices and/or software. Several playback devices and software packages can be obtained at a very low-cost or for no cost. (A limited quantity of playback devices may be available to checkout through the DS office on a first-come, first-served basis. In addition, DAISY format software is available on the computers at the DS office during office hours.)



• Notify the DS office immediately of changes in their schedules so that proper adjustments in services can be made.



• Notify DS of any problems with alternative text, including the material provided or the process itself.



• Return all alternative text to DS by two weeks after the end of the semester in which it was used.

Links to Accommodation Procedures:

• Alternative Formats Of Text
• Alternative Testing
• Course Substitution
• Interpreter Services
• Notetaking Services
• Priority Registration
• Service Animals

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