Where do I refer this student?
A guide for faculty and staff to help students sort out their academic difficulties.
College students experience academic problems for a variety of reasons, some are disability related, many are not. Deciding whether a referral to Disability Services and Resources (DS&R) is appropriate can be complex. DS&R recommends using the following questions to help sort the issues.
Refer the student to DS&R if…
The student discloses a disability-related reason for him to miss class.
Does she read the text book?
Refer student to DS&R if…
She reads it, but doesn’t understand, or is unable to read the book, or is a very slow reader.
Does he understand lectures? Can he take usable lecture notes?
Refer student to DS&R if…
He discloses a disability-related reason for these difficulties.
Examples: student is hard of hearing, has a learning disability or ADHD, psychological, or physical disability.
Does the student have exam challenges?
Refer student to DS&R if…
She consistently runs out of time.
His lack of focus interferes with test performance.
She often mis-reads test questions.
Does the student report test anxiety?
Commonly reported symptoms include “blanking-out” and being unable to remember content during the exam. Test anxiety is not a disability and DS&R does not accommodate it.
Refer student to Counseling Services (part of Health Services).
Other Referrals
Other resources on campus help students solve their academic problems.
Is the student having trouble understanding course content?
You may be the best resource. Suggest strategies pertinent to your discipline. Teach them to review their progress and set time-lines for improvement. If course appropriate, refer student to the Tutoring Center.
Does she know how to study?
Does he know how to read a textbook?
Can he manage his time?
Can she strategically take an exam?
Refer student to SSP 1054 (College Study Strategies) or the SSP faculty.
Is the student an English Language Learner?
Does she need additional test time because of English language issues?
Refer student to the Multicultural Center (Second Floor KSC) and the appropriate MLRC director.
Is the student using excessive caffeine or alcohol? Getting enough sleep?
These and other health related issues interfere with the student’s ability to concentrate and to learn. Refer student to Health Services.
Disability Services & Resources
DS&R
Tracks to Success
Kirby Student Center 258
726-8217
http://www.d.umn.edu/access
Disability accommodations, including test accommodations, not provided to referred students until the need for them is documented by an appropriate professional.