Resolving Conflict
Accommodating a disability is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, but a process of negotiating a plan and coordinating logistics between the individual requesting services (the student) and the accommodating institution (Bronx Community College). Staff at the Disability Services Office, therefore, make every effort to ensure that each student who registers with the office is provided reasonable accommodations and appropriate adjustments that address his/her individual needs and that all staff and faculty are able to comply with these mandated services.
In the event that you are unhappy with the Disability Services Office or experience any issues with or obstacles to receiving the services you are entitled to, you have the right to speak up about these concerns. First, arrange an appointment with the Director of Disability Services Office to discuss the situation. If the issue is still unresolved after meeting with the Disability Services Office Director, make an appointment to speak with the VP of Student Success.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I let my professors know that I get accommodations with Disability Services?
- New Students: Disability Services will send you an accommodation letter that you will then forward to your professors.
- Returning Students: Scan and email your accommodation ID to the professor. If you lost your ID card, please email disabilityservices@bcc.cuny.edu and we will create a letter for you.
How will I get my accommodations for exams and assignments?
- Self-identify to your professor using your accommodations letter or ID card
- Submit a Starfish testing accommodations request for each exam a few days prior: Please see link for detailed instructions on Starfish and requesting testing accommodations.
What kind of assistive technology do you have in your AT lab?
Our Assistive Technology Lab has a combination of hardware, software, and portable devises that help our students level the playing field.
Software:
- Our Windows-based computers have the latest versions of ZoomText Fusion (includes Jaws and ZoomText), Dragon Naturally Speaking, and Kurzweil 3000.
- Our Mac-based computers have Dragon Dictate, Kurzweil 3000, and other built-in accessibility features.
- All of our computers have 27-inch monitors to accommodate students with visual impairments and are available to all students registered with ODS.
Hardware: Below are some examples of the hardware available to our students.
- An adjustable table with a computer that can run both Windows and Mac OS programs
- Scanners that allow students to upload documents onto a computer and utilize the software
- SARA CE Document Reader, which will automatically read documents placed on it
Portable Devices:
- Smart pens
- Voice recorders
- Portable CCTVs
- Book readers
Will I be able to keep the assistive technology once it is in my accommodation plan?
Unfortunately, no. Students may borrow AT devices on a semester-by-semester basis. If AT is part of your accommodation plan, one of our Assistive Technology specialists will guide you through the procedure for borrowing and returning the device.
What if I do not know how to use the assistive technology listed?
Not a problem! Staff in our Assistive Technology Lab will meet with you one-on-one and teach you how to use your AT for optimal performance.
Are any services being provided remotely?
Yes! We can provide certain necessary services remotely, including CUNY LEADS, assistive technology training, tutoring, and intake appointments. Contact us through email at disabilityservices@bcc.cuny.edu or by phone at 718.289.5874 during business hours.
Are you available on MS Teams?
We are available on Microsoft Teams as well. Please use link for MS Teams to access Microsoft Teams from your laptop/desktop or to download the app on your smartphone.
