Instructional Tips for Faculty Working with Students with Psychological Disabilities

The needs of students with psychological disabilities can vary widely and may change with the changing course of their illness. The most important way faculty can support these students is by being supportive and flexible. Based on existing knowledge and experience, the following accommodations may be recommended on a case by case basis:

1. Priority registration.
2. Extended time for exams.
3. Reduced distraction testing location.
4. Notetakers and tape recorders. SSD provides carbonless paper for a volunteer notetaker to use in the class. The student may ask for the instructor's assistance in anonymously locating a volunteer.
5. Flexibility in attendance requirements in case of hospitalization/crisis.
6. Time management and study skills assistance.
7. Reduced course load.
8. Incompletes or late withdrawals rather than a failing grade in the event of prolonged illness-related absence.

Note: All disability related information including medical documentation, educational correspondence, and educational accommodation records are considered confidential. The University of Texas and SSD have an obligation to maintain the confidentiality of such documentation.