Interpreting, Transcription, and Captioning

The DRC will help ensure you have access to all services, classes, and events at USU. We provide a variety of services tailored to meet the needs of Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. A DRC consultant will work with you to create an individualized accommodation plan designed to allow full participation in all aspects of University life.

Admittance

All students must meet USU admissions standards. Qualified applicants will not be denied admission solely on the basis of a disability. It is not necessary, nor recommended, that students disclose their disability in the application process. Once admitted, students with disabilities requiring accommodations must contact the DRC and complete the application process.

Documentation

The DRC takes a flexible approach to the documentation requirements for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students, recognizing each student's unique circumstances. Current documentation (typically an audiogram) may be requested to help us determine appropriate accommodations. Qualified professions such as physicians and/or audiologists (impartial and non-related) must provide their name, title, and credentials.

Confidentiality of Disability and Personal Related Information

The DRC is committed to ensuring that all information and communication pertaining to a student's disability is confidential. The DRC will only share disability related information with academic departments or instructors in order to advocate for an appropriate service or accommodation.

In accordance with the RID/Utah Code of Professional Conduct, interpreters keep all assignment related information strictly confidential. The DRC takes a collaborative team approach in providing the best possible services. Work related information may be shared within the services team on a “need to know basis" in order to improve the quality of services.

Accommodations

Accommodations are determined when the Deaf Services Consultant and the student meet to discuss the student's needs. Primarily, these are based on the documentation received. While this is not an exhaustive list, accommodations for a Deaf or Hard of Hearing student may include:

  • Sign Language Interpreting
  • Transcribing
  • Captioning
  • Note-taking
  • Assistive Listening
  • Visual Aids

New students seeking communication access via sign language interpreters or transcribers should meet with the Deaf Services Consultant several weeks prior to the beginning of the semester to discuss their needs. Requests are considered in order of submission. Every effort is made to accommodate student preferences, however, requests received less than two weeks before classes start are much more difficult to fill.

The DRC will provide services in accordance with state and federal law. Every effort will be made to locate a qualified interpreter or transcriber. If one is not available, you will be notified and given the opportunity to meet with your Deaf Services Consultant to discuss alternate forms of accommodation.

Interpreter/Transcriber Scheduling

Student preference for specific interpreters/transcribers is considered along with these considerations:

  • Interpreter/transcriber availability and skill level
  • Registration date (i.e. earlier requests receive first consideration)
  • Student class standing
  • Low vs. high demand times
  • Course content
  • Academic department scheduling issues
  • Availability of alternative course sections
  • Academic vs. nonacademic content
  • Other considerations made on a case by case basis with the involvement of the student

Student Responsibilities

Students receiving DRC services maintain the same responsibility for academic standards, attendance, participation, and behavior as is required of all students by the department/university. Students receiving interpreting/transcribing services must also:

  • Fill out a DRC application and provide documentation when prompted.
  • Set up an appointment to meet with the Deaf Services Consultant to discuss accommodation needs.
  • Complete academic accommodation requests on Aggie Access during priority registration (access is available 24 hours after registering) or at least 2 weeks prior to the first day of classes. Update requests immediately after making any schedule changes.
  • Notify the Deaf Services Consultant immediately of any schedule changes including class cancellations, room assignment alterations or class time changes.
  • Make additional requests for interpreting/transcribing services in writing (either by email or text) directly to the Deaf Services Consultant.
  • When missing a class please inform the interpreters/transcribers and the Deaf Services Consultant. Missing three consecutive classes without notification requires an appointment with the Deaf Services Consultant to discuss continuation of services.
  • Arrive to class on time. The interpreter/transcriber will wait 15 minutes after the class begins for a 50-minute class and 20 minutes for longer classes. If circumstances beyond your control arise and you need the interpreter/transcriber to wait longer, please notify, the interpreter/transcriber and the Deaf Services Consultant.
  • Immediately report any accommodations that do not meet your needs to the Deaf Services Consultant so adjustments can be made.
  • If problems arise with your interpreter/transcriber or note taker, please contact the Deaf Services Consultant.
  • Submit requests for additional accommodations (i.e.: interpreter or transcriber for special events such as special speakers, extra class sessions, or study groups) as soon as you know you need them. A 24-hour notice is required but more advanced notification is preferred. Should an interpreter be requested for a cultural event such as a play, a 2-week notice is appreciated. Every effort is made to fill each request.
  • Should you have an oral presentation in your class, please work out the details with your interpreter in advance.
  • You should not use the interpreter/transcriber/note taker as a substitute for class attendance. Interpreters are not responsible to provide information missed while the student is not paying attention i.e. falling asleep, reading newspaper, or texting during class.
  • Read and understand the D/HH and DRC Student Handbooks.

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