Accessibility Services COVID-19 Updates

You are still entitled to accommodations, but there may be changes with how they are implemented in the new platform. You can speak with both your Instructor and your Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist at Accessibility Services to coordinate how best to make any necessary changes to your accommodations.

Accessibility Services continues with regular exam scheduling practices.  Exam scheduling request forms should be submitted at least 10 business days in advance of exams. Submit completed exam scheduling request forms to accessibility@bcit.ca.

In many cases, your instructor is responsible for adjusting your additional time for online exams per your IAP. Please be sure to remind your Instructor of your accommodations and need for additional time well in advance before the exam (e.g. 5 business days). Should you or your Instructor require any clarification, please contact Accessibility Services.

Yes, you will still be able to receive a copy of the notes. While most classes are offered online, you may find that you no longer need a note-taker due to the course design changes. For example, lectures that are pre-recorded videos can be watched at your own pace. On the other hand, some Instructors may still opt for scheduled class meetings with real-time communication. There may be other aspects of the online class format that you find helpful:

• Does your Instructor provide the class with electronic copies of notes, hand-outs, etc.?
• Can the online lecture be recorded?
• Does the online platform allow you to save transcripts of discussions or online material?

Consult with your Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist on available options.

If you require a reader for an online exam, there are software options that will read content for you on your computer.

The first option is to determine if your computer already has reading technology. For example, if you have a Mac, highlight the text you want read out loud and right click, select Speech, then select Start Speaking to have the selection read out loud.  Please trial to ensure it’s functional.

There are also a number of reading software programs that you can access. Read&Write is a program licensed by BCIT and available for free to BCIT students.  Download the reading software or find it by searching Read&Write on the BCIT website.

There are other free to low cost reading and writing software programs on the market that are available for computers, tablets, and smart phones. Explore other possible options.

Yes, 2.0x can be used if using reading technology/software.

If you are not currently registered with Accessibility Services, please follow our step-by-step instructions.

If you are already registered with Accessibility Services please contact your Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist, or reception at 604-451-6963.

No. COVID-19 and similar acute conditions (e.g. flu, colds, sore throats, etc.) are not considered a disability and therefore are not accommodated for through Accessibility Services. Please contact your program area/Instructor for assistance pertaining to this matter.