How to Address Referrals

Faculty members are encouraged to refer students whom they suspect may have a disability to the CAL.  While we do not provide testing for disabilities, we can refer the student to professionals in the area and provide other relevant resources. Do not tell a student you think he or she has a disability. Approach the student as you would any other student having difficulty in the class by referencing what you have observed. Inquire about what might be impacting the student's progress. A student with a disability will likely disclose at this time if the difficulties are disability related. Refer the student to the CAL if he or she discloses a disability or indicates he or she suspects a disability. If neither of these scenarios occurs, we recommend providing the student with a list of campus resources, including the CAL.

Suggested Syllabus Statement

The following is a possible syllabus statement you may wish to use to direct students who might require disability related accommodations to the CAL. We encourage you to include such a statement on your syllabus or Canvas.

"Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need classroom or exam accommodations are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (1250 Maggie Benston Centre) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion."