This publication is funded under a contract supported by the Office of Disability Employment Policy of the U.S. Department of Labor, contract #J-9-M-2-0022. The opinions contained in this publication are those of the contractor and do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Department of Labor.

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ACCOMMODATIONS FOR TESTING
By Suzanne Gosden Kitchen, Ed.D.

Preface

Introduction: Terminology

Individuals with disabilities can have many different types of limitations that affect their abilities to take tests. These individuals may need accommodations when taking employment exams, standardized tests, licensure exams, and classroom exams. Individuals with disabilities who are protected by disability legislation (such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act) can ask for, and receive, accommodations in order to take tests. Those who have called JAN regarding testing accommodations report having one or more of the following conditions, diagnoses, or limitations. This list is NOT a list of disabilities covered under the ADA, nor is it an all-inclusive list of disabling conditions for which test-takers would need accommodations.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Amputation:

Small Triangle Blue Bullet Missing fingers or digits
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Partial fingers or digits
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Missing limbs
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Partial limbs
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Use of prosthetic device

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Attention Deficit Disorder:

Small Triangle Blue Bullet ADD/ADHD
Small Triangle Blue Bullet time management problems
Small Triangle Blue Bullet distractibility
Small Triangle Blue Bullet concentration problems

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Back Condition

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Blind or visually impaired

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Cancer

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Cerebral Palsy (CP)

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Circulatory Disorders

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs)

Small Triangle Blue Bullet Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Tendonitis
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Epicondolitis
Small Triangle Blue Bullet DeQuervain's Disease

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Deaf or Hearing Impaired

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Epilepsy

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Fibromyalgia

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Gastrointestinal Disorders

Small Triangle Blue Bullet Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Colitis
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Crohn's disease
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Diverticulitis

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Head Injury (open or closed)

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Learning Disabilities:

Small Triangle Blue Bullet Specific Learning Disability in reading
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Specific Learning Disability in writing
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Specific Learning Disability in math
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Dyslexia
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Dyscalcula
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Dysgraphia
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Expressive writing disorder
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Expressive language disorder
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Auditory processing problems

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Little People

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Lupus

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Migraines

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Muscular Dystrophy (MD)

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Myasthenia Gravis

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Obesity

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Paraplegia

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Polio

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Psychiatric Impairments:

Small Triangle Blue Bullet Depression
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Bipolar Disorder
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Anxiety Disorder/panic attacks
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Personality disorders
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Quadriplegia
Small Triangle Blue Bullet Traumatic Brain Injury

Testing Accommodations: Questions and Answers

The following questions are typical testing accommodation questions received at JAN's national toll-free hotline. A JAN consultant who is familiar with various types of disabilities and who is familiar with the ADA and other disability legislation crafted the responses. These responses are not guidance from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and are not intended to be legal advice.

For more information on employment testing, read the EEOC's Title I Technical Assistance Manual, Chapter 5.6 online at http://www.jan.wvu.edu/links/ADAtam1.html#V.

For more information on examinations or courses, read the Department of Justice's Title III Technical Assistance Manual, Chapter 4.6 online at http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/taman3.html.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet What is alternative format?

Alternative format is any format that is different from the existing test. Alternative format may be: large print, Braille, color-coded text, audio (reader, tape/cd, or computer).

Large Blue Triangle Bullet What is extended time?

Extended time means allowing the test-taker extra time to complete the test. The amount of extended time should be correlated to the test-taker's disability or limitations. Common examples of extended time include: time and a half, double time, and unlimited time.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet What is a reader?

A reader is a person who reads the test to the test-taker. This person should be familiar with the terminology or language used on the test. A reader does not interpret, re-word, or explain the test. A reader reads the test directions, questions, and answer choices to the test-taker.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet What is a scribe?

A scribe is a person who writes down, or otherwise records, the test-taker's responses. The scribe does not create answers for the test-taker or help the test-taker identify correct answers. The scribe simply writes the test-taker's answers down on the test or answer sheet.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet What type of tests will people need accommodations for?

A person with a disability can ask for an accommodation on any exam. Some examples of exams are: teaching license exams, driver's license exams, college entrance exams, exams in college or technical school, employment tests, and typing tests.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Who can ask for accommodations in testing?

Individuals with disabilities that inhibit their abilities to take tests can ask for an accommodation.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet How does a person with disability ask for a testing accommodation?

A person with a disability can ask for an accommodation when registering to take a test. Oftentimes, the testing company provides testing accommodation forms to submit. The individual can also make a request verbally or in writing. The person with a disability is responsible for providing documentation of a disability, and the individual can describe the type of accommodation that will be effective.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Do testing accommodations cost the test-taker extra money?

No. The test-taker needing an accommodation pays the same cost as any person taking the same test.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Will test scores or standards be lowered/changed/altered for person with disability?

Generally, no. If all test-takers must obtain a certain "passing score," so must the test-taker with a disability. The test-taker with a disability may need an accommodation to help meet the standard, but the standard does not have to be lowered, changed, or altered.

One exception to this rule is a situation where the test standard is arbitrary or is not related to the educational or employment requirements. For example, an employee must be able to type 40 words per minute to pass an employment test, but typing is not an essential function of the job.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Will a person with a disability be granted a "test exemption" as an accommodation?

Generally, no. If the test is a requirement of the application process, the job, class or program, or licensing credentials, the test-taker with a disability will probably have to take the test. The test-taker with a disability may, however, ask for an accommodation to assist with the taking the test.

Testing Accommodations

Note: People with disabilities may experience limitations in cognitive abilities, motor abilities, and sensory abilities that can affect test-taking performance. People who have disabilities may have some or all of the limitations listed below. The degree of limitation will vary from individual to individual along with accommodation(s) provided.

Limitations in Cognitive/Neurological Abilities

Test-takers who may need the following accommodations include people with: TBI, MS, MR, fibromyalgia, LD, ADD or ADHD, cancer, and psychological impairments.

Memory: Test-takers may have difficulty remembering events or activities on the day of the test.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet Post or announce:

Small Triangle Blue Bullet reminders
Small Triangle Blue Bullet location of the testing room
Small Triangle Blue Bullet location of bathrooms
Small Triangle Blue Bullet time remaining
Small Triangle Blue Bullet materials to put away or to keep out during testing
Small Triangle Blue Bullet schedule one test per test day during test session
Small Triangle Blue Bullet allow extended time/flexibility (example: take math section on Saturday, reading section on Monday, and writing on Tuesday.)

Lack of Concentration or Organization: Test-takers may be distracted or disorganized when taking a test. Possible accommodation include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet testing in a private room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing extended time
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing a reader
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing the test on tape
Large Blue Triangle Bullet reducing/eliminating distractions
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing breaks
Large Blue Triangle Bullet seating test-taker away from doors or windows, and other distractions

Time Management/Performing or Completing Tasks: Test-takers may be unable to complete or perform tasks in a timely manner or meet timelines. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet testing in a private room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing extended time
Large Blue Triangle Bullet having proctor announce time in intervals
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using a clock or watch
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing test-taker to maintain written task-list
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing test-taker to use watch or timer programmed to alarm or vibrate at set intervals

Reading Print Material: Test-takers may be unable to read test materials. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing a reader for the test-taker
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing test on tape/cd
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing extended time
Large Blue Triangle Bullet administering test in private room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet giving instructions in bold print
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing the use of a line guide or ruler to keep place in test book or answer sheet
Large Blue Triangle Bullet testing on computer with voice output
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using symbols or pictures where appropriate
Large Blue Triangle Bullet color-coding test by sections or subjects
Large Blue Triangle Bullet putting multiple choice in bold

Writing words, sentences, or paragraphs: Test-takers may be unable to construct written responses as required on the test. Potential accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing test-taker to write draft first
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing a scribe
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing verbal responses instead of written responses
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing use of graphic organizer
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing use of scratch paper
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing use of dictionary or thesaurus
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing use of computer word processing to create written response
Large Blue Triangle Bullet assisting with grammar
Large Blue Triangle Bullet assisting with spelling
Large Blue Triangle Bullet assisting with time management

Performing Mathematical Calculations: Test-takers may be unable to "do math" as required on the test. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing the use of a calculator (including talking calculator)
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing the use of other counting devices (fingers, toes, pencils, beans, etc.)
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing the use of written formulas
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing the use of scratch paper
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using flash cards
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing the use of times table list/multiplication chart
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing the use of pictures/graphics with word problems

Limitations in Motor Abilities

Test-takers who may need the following accommodations include people with TBI, MS, MD, fibromyalgia, MS, MD, paraplegia, quadriplegia, amputations, cancer, CP, back conditions, little people, and people who are obese.

Sitting: Test-takers may have difficulty sitting for long periods of time while taking a test. Test-takers may also have difficulty sitting in a traditional chair or desk. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing space at table instead of desk
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing for frequent breaks
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing extended time
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing test-taker to alternate sitting/standing
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using an alternative chair, cushion, or footrest

Writing: Test-takers may have difficulty physically writing responses or recording answers as required by the test. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet using any writing product (not just a #2 pencil)
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing additional time
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing verbal response
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using a scribe
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing writing aids
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing frequent breaks
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using a clipboard to hold paper while writing
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using line guide, writing template, or ruler

Turning Pages: Test-takers may have difficulty turning pages of the test booklet, or holding the test booklet open. Potential accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet having a proctor turn pages
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing page-turning devices
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing reader(s)
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing test on tape/CD
Large Blue Triangle Bullet unstapleing booklet and laying flat
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using table instead of desk

Typing: Test-takers may have difficulty typing responses. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing practice on test device or unit
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using speech recognition
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using one handed-keyboards
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using alternative input devices
Large Blue Triangle Bullet alternative keyboards
Large Blue Triangle Bullet alternative mice

Limitations in Sensory Abilities

Test-takers who may need the following accommodations include people who are deaf or hearing impaired, blind or visually impaired, have TBIs, Expressive Language Disorders, or Auditory Processing Disorders.

Hearing: Test-takers may have difficulty hearing in the testing environment. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet having proctor/administrator use microphone (FM loop)
Large Blue Triangle Bullet putting test-taker in private room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet putting test-taker in front of room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet facing student who reads lips
Large Blue Triangle Bullet posting time prompts in writing
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing interpreter for sign-language

Seeing: Test-takers may have difficulty seeing the test or test materials, or other visuals in the testing environment. Potential accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet announcing time prompts
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing test on tape
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing reader
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing alternative format
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing magnification
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing use of talking calculator
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing test in alternate foreground or background colors
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using screen readers (voice output)
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing test-taker to get familiar with test environment
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing for use of assistance dog (care for animal during test time)

Communicating: Test-takers may have difficulty communicating in the testing environment. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing interpreter for sign-language
Large Blue Triangle Bullet communicating in writing
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing extended time
Large Blue Triangle Bullet communicating use of symbols instead of words
Large Blue Triangle Bullet communicating via auxiliary device such as
Large Blue Triangle Bullet speech board
Large Blue Triangle Bullet communication cards
Large Blue Triangle Bullet alpha-numeric pager
Large Blue Triangle Bullet TTY
Large Blue Triangle Bullet email

Other Limitations

Panic Attacks: Test-takers may experience panic attacks during test administration. Test-takers who may need the following accommodations include people with ADD and psychological impairments. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing frequent breaks
Large Blue Triangle Bullet extending time
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing a private room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing a regular room - sit in back of room so test taker can leave if necessary
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing test-taker to become familiar with test environment
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing test-taker to choose own seat
Large Blue Triangle Bullet test administrators have plan of action to deal with emergencies such as
Large Blue Triangle Bullet passing out, having seizure, or conduct problems

Diarrhea/Vomiting/Nausea: Test-takers may have difficulty managing bodily functions. Test-takers who may need the following accommodations include people with psychological impairments, MS, MD, intestinal disorders, and cancer. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing frequent breaks
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing extended time
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing a private room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing regular room - sit in back of room so test-taker can leave discreetly

Headaches: Test-takers may experience mild to severe headaches during the testing administration. Test-takers who may need the following accommodations include people with migraines, vision impairments, and psychological impairments. Potential accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing frequent breaks
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing use of sunglasses or ball-cap
Large Blue Triangle Bullet turning off fluorescent lights if in private testing room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using a glare guard
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using a flicker free computer monitor

Fatigue: Test-takers may experience mild to severe fatigue during the testing administration. Test-takers who may need the following accommodations include people with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, MS, MS, and cancer. Possible accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing frequent breaks
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing extended time
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing private room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet scheduling one test per day on test day
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing extended time/flexibility
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing space to lay down during breaks

Temperature Sensitivity: Test-taker may get hot or cold during testing administration. Test-takers who may need the following accommodations include people with fibromyalgia, cancer, MS, MD, and circulatory disorders. Possible accommodations include.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing use of blanket or jacket
Large Blue Triangle Bullet adjusting temperature in room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using a cool vest
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using a fan
Large Blue Triangle Bullet placing individual by window
Large Blue Triangle Bullet placing individual away from vent
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing test-taker to bring gloves, socks, etc.

Chemical Sensitivity: Test-takers may experience mild to severe reactions to chemicals, fragrances, or perfumes. Test-takers who may need the following accommodations include people with multiple chemical sensitivity, asthma, and migraine headaches. Potential accommodations include:

Large Blue Triangle Bullet having proctor wear no perfume
Large Blue Triangle Bullet testing in a private room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet placing individual by window
Large Blue Triangle Bullet having the individual use a mask
Large Blue Triangle Bullet using a fan
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing HEPA filter in room - turn on prior to start of test

Dietary Needs: Test-takers may need to eat, drink, or take medications during the test administration. Test-takers who may need the following accommodations include people with diabetes, cancer, intestinal disorders, and psychiatric impairments.

Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing extended time
Large Blue Triangle Bullet providing private room
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing test-taker to eat during test
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing test-taker to drink during test
Large Blue Triangle Bullet allowing time to administer medications to self

To discuss additional testing accommodations for people with disabilities or to get product information contact JAN.

RESOURCES
(This is a non-inclusive listing)

If you have a question about accommodations and/or the employment provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), click here:
JAN on Demand

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