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Guidelines to Access

Q: What is accessibility?

A: The word "access" has two formal applications: physical access and program access. Physical access has to do with things like designated parking, curb cuts and ramps, door widths, location and type of elevator control buttons, service-counter heights, signage etc. The ADA contains detailed, enforceable guidelines to assure access to new buildings and to existing facilities as they are remodeled. Program access refers to an allowance that special services and accommodations be made by state and local governments where existing facilities are inaccessible, so that people with disabilities can participate in and benefit from government-provided programs, services, and activities. When existing facilities are inaccessible and program-access services would be ineffective, physical facilities must be modified in accordance with ADA access guidelines. To illustrate, an employee could walk around a built-in inaccessible counter to work at a table with a person who uses a wheelchair but could not help the same person use an inaccessible washroom. More generically, the word "accessibility" has to do with equality of opportunity. The ADA requires special services to that end, and "reasonable modifications in policies and practices" to assure nondiscrimination. Nondiscrimination against people with disabilities can be stated more positively as the right of access.

 

Q: Speaking of physical access, how can a student obtain a permit to use accessible parking?

A: Two items are required for students to obtain permission to park in accessible parking places: a note from a medical doctor documenting the need and a fee payment receipt. All students are required to pay a parking fee each semester. Take the doctor's note to Police and Safety, located west of the Classroom-Medical Building.

 

Q: Does the university honor "handicapped parking permits" issued by the city and state?

A: Yes. These permits are honored when used by members of the general public. Students, however, are requested to also display a university-issued permit. If the student's motor vehicle has a state license designated for accessible parking, IPFW Police and Safety will grant the university permit without need of further documentation.

 

Q: Can special class-scheduling needs be accommodated?

A: Yes, under certain circumstances. IPFW recognizes that special scheduling needs can arise from disability. Hence, priority can be given to students with such needs, to assure an equal opportunity to participate in academic programs. Some examples would be the need for extended time to ambulate across campus or take a break between classes, medically prescribed dietary and other treatment schedules, side effects of medications, and the need to order accessible textbooks well in advance of the beginning of a class. Students who plan to request priority registration are advised to contact their academic advisors to set appointments for academic advising in advance of announced registration periods. Should any question arise as to the appropriateness of priority registration for a given student, advisors are requested to contact the director of SSD.

 

Q: If a classroom is inaccessible to a particular student, can the class be moved?

A: Yes, although the need to move a class to a different room in order to enhance accessibility rarely presents itself at IPFW, there is a simple procedure for doing so. Any student having this need should contact SSD and explain the difficulty with the current location. SSD staff will work with the course instructor and registrar to identify an appropriate alternative location. The academic department or school offering the class must complete a Form 200 and submit it to the registrar immediately, to confirm the change and reserve the new room.

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