Testing Accommodations

Instructors are primarily responsible for proctoring exams for DRC students, just as with non-DRC students. “Exam” is used on this page for all types of assessments: tests, quizzes, exams, etc.

IN-PERSON AND REMOTE ASSESSMENT

IMPORTANT: Faculty are expected to communicate with their students who have testing accommodations following receipt of a Faculty Notification Email from the DRC. It is essential to discuss logistics for providing testing accommodations in advance of scheduled assessments. We offer options for you to consider on this page.

Use Canvas for Exams

For students who have testing accommodations such as “distraction reduced space” and “breaks during tests”, taking their exams in Canvas allows them to choose their testing environment and take breaks when needed. Accommodations like “extended time” can easily be added to a Canvas exam on a per-student basis. Learn more on the OAI website in their section regarding exams in Canvas.

Putting exams into Canvas for all students increases the likelihood that they will be able to demonstrate their learning.

Keep in mind that students need to have access to a computer in order to take the exam. For students without a computer (with a working camera), this option may not be equitable. Students can borrow laptop computers and other equipment from the PSU Library, based on availability.

Faculty Proctoring

We recommend that you review the DRC Faculty Notification Email(s) you received and review the linked information about testing accommodations.

When the instructor proctors accommodated exams, they are available to the student in case they have questions or need clarification. If a colleague proctors accommodated exams, the instructor should be available to answer questions or need clarification if possible.

Department Support for Proctoring

This option allows faculty to be available if questions arise during the exam without having to proctor the exam themself. Admin staff, GAs/TAs, or colleagues in the department can proctor an exam.

Another option is for the student to take the exam in a secure location, such as a conference room, or empty faculty office where someone can check in from time to time.

Your department scheduler can assist in finding a suitable space (conference room, classroom, etc.) for testing.

Alternative Means of Assessment

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a flexible pedagogical framework that minimizes barriers and increases accessibility for the fullest range of students possible—not just those registered with the DRC. Just as an entryway ramp allows everyone to access a building while a stairway is only accessible for some, UDL asks us to trade “one size fits all” thinking to imagine curriculum designs that are accessible for most students. UDL focuses on increasing flexibility, choice, and relevance in curriculum design and implementation.

This type of assessment requires far fewer accommodations for those with disabilities so there is an added benefit in lessening the burden on the DRC and on faculty having to implement accommodations that faculty need to navigate. For more on this, visit the Universal Design For Learning: Assessment page on the PSU Testing Services website, which includes links to additional resources, as well.

Other Options for Proctoring Exams

Feel free to reach out to the DRC by calling 503-725-4150 or emailing drc@pdx.edu for assistance.

The Learning Center provides Testing Services support for faculty who have explored all of the other options listed on this page. Testing Services’ priority is to provide proctoring for students who have specialized accommodations (indicated by a carat^ on their Faculty Notification Email) that cannot be provided in another environment. Testing Services’ availability is very limited, and we advise students and faculty to schedule exams at least 7 business days in advance, and faculty may have to be flexible about the date and time the student takes the exam if needed.

Testing Services can be reached by email (testingservices@pdx.edu) any time, or by phone at (503) 725-4459 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, and will respond to any missed calls or after-hours emails within 2 business days.

If you have questions about the information on this page, please contact the Disability Resource Center.

Email: drc@pdx.edu
Phone: 503-725-4150