Explore Other Alternatives First

Note-taking assistance is considered the last option for receiving copies of lecture materials. It is your responsibility to arrange for notes wherever possible. For instance, lectures may be recorded and available online from IT Services, notes may be posted online by your instructor or on Canvas, or notes may be available from a friend, the instructor or Teaching Assistant. When meeting with instructors to discuss your accommodations, ask if they can assist with obtaining notes.

Please note that if you make a private arrangement with a classmate to receive notes, they will not be recognized as a CAL volunteer note-taker unless they apply to and are signed up by the CAL program. You are expected to explore all of these options as part of the process for accessing note-taking assistance. Last minute requests for notes cannot be accommodated.

Eligibility to Receive Note-taking Services

The need for, and entitlement to, note-taking assistance is determined on a case-by-case basis by a Disability Access Advisor, in the same manner as any other accommodation or service provided by the CAL. The Disability Access Advisor will complete a review (or Needs Assessment) with you which will take into consideration your disability, the course demands, availability of online notes etc. If you are approved, ‘note-taking assistance’ will be indicated on the Accommodation Form prepared by your Disability Access Advisor and must be approved by your instructor.