III. 4. I know that ODS has an Early Self-Identification Policy, but shouldn't I wait until after midterms to see if I need accommodations?

At ODS we feel that it is preferable to self-identify to professors during the first two weeks of class. This way, professors are aware that you are registered with ODS, and that you may need test accommodations such as time-plus-one-half. With this policy, you are not waiting until you perform at a disappointing level on an exam, but are being proactive and using your diagnosis as a safety net. An added benefit to the ODS Early Self-Identification Policy is that it opens up the lines of communication with your professor and encourages analysis of your disability profile with respect to each individual course. For example, you may only require accommodations in specific courses, i.e. if you have a math-based disability, time-plus-one-half on a statistics exam may be beneficial, but not needed for a history test. Test format should likewise be considered. For example, essays may be problematic; however, multiple choice questions may pose no difficulty.

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III. ODS "101"

1. If I have an LD, what kind of support does ODS offer?
2. What is the role of the LD Coordinator?
3. What additional resources are available to LD students at Barnard?
4. I know that ODS has an Early Self-Identification Policy, but shouldn't I wait until after midterms to see if I need accommodations?
5. I'm a high school guidance counselor and would like information regarding recommendations and options for students with learning disabilities and some specific insight into Barnard policies.
6. Help! Half of the semester is finished and I'm feeling overwhelmed about what I have to accomplish before finals. What should I do?
7. I've just been accepted to Barnard, and I have a learning disability.  What's the procedure for receiving accommodations for my disability?