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Academic Examinations for Students With Sight Loss

    Summary: Requirements for assistance in examinations vary from person to person. Find out more about some of the arrangements that can assist a candidate with sight loss in sitting an examination

    • Following discussion with the candidate, make plans for the examination as early as possible in the academic year to allow for any necessary alterations.
    • The candidate should have the opportunity to put forward their needs and requirements to the college or examination board and ask for their agreement in advance of any examination.
    • Consult the candidate regarding their preferred method of presentation of the examination questions. The candidate may prefer to receive examination questions in Braille, large print, on audiotape, on computer disk (which can be read aloud using the adaptive software on the candidate’s computer) or by some other method.
    • Similarly, the candidate may request an alternative method of answering the examination questions. The candidate can dictate the answers to an appointed person. This person should have a good knowledge of the subject being examined. Alternatively, the candidate can dictate answers onto audiotape, which are later transcribed to text by exam personnel or the candidate can type and print off the answers from a computer which has the specific assistive software (magnification or speech) that the student requires.
    • Most candidates with impaired vision will require extra time in examination situations as accessing material in written or audio formats or on a computer screen can take more time. Appropriate additional time should, therefore, be available to provide the candidate with the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and ability.
    • Candidates should, if necessary, have the use of a separate room and invigilator.
    • Arrangements for the provision of specialist equipment such as closed circuit television that will enlarge the size of print, a tape recorder, computer with magnification or speech software or a desk lamp for additional lighting will need advance planning and consultation. Appropriate workspace should be provided to accommodate the size of particular equipment required.
    • A flexible approach towards the method of examining the candidate should be encouraged.
    • All relevant examination personnel and the candidate concerned should be notified of the final arrangements in advance of the examination.

    • Disability Support Service

      The disability support service within your college aims to ensure that students with disabilities have access to the wide range of experiences that college life has to offer. They encourage students to disclose their disability and make contact with their service so that they can assist students by meeting their specific requirements. It is up to the student how much contact they have with the disability support service.

    • How NCBI Can Help Students

      • Our technology service offers advice on a range of magnification and speech software to make information accessible.
      • We can also help students with sight loss to live independent lives by enabling them to carry out everyday tasks and move around safely and independently. See our mobility training service.
      • Our community resource service aims to provide emotional and practical support to meet the individual needs of students living with sight loss.

    • AHEAD

      AHEAD, the Association for Higher Education Access and Disability, is a non-profit organisation working to promote full access to and participation in third level education for students with disabilities in Ireland.

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