Q. AUDIO RECORDING: Can a faculty member forbid a student with a disability to use a tape recorder in class?

A. An instructor is typically required to allow a student to audio record her course if recording the class is determined to be an appropriate accommodation for a student's disability. Recording is specifically mentioned in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act as a means of providing full participation in educational programs and activities. Occasionally, classroom discussion reveals items of a personal nature about students. If open discussions tend to reveal personal information, it would be appropriate to ask the student with a disability to turn off the recorder during these discussions. Contact CSD with questions or concerns about recording lectures.

Q. DISAGREEMENTS: What if I do not agree with a recommended accommodation?

A. In accordance with federal regulation, GCC Board Policy has established formal grievance procedures for providing prompt and equitable resolution of disagreements. When a dispute involves the conduct of a course or academic program, those procedures provide for consultation between the faculty member responsible for the course, the student, and a representative from DSPS. Contact CSD to learn about the grievance procedures on your campus.