Trinity disAbility Service

Contact Us disAbility Service Office,
Printing House Square,
Trinity College Dublin,
Dublin 2, 
Ireland

View the contact page for more contact and location information

askds@tcd.ie Gaeilge

Departmental Assessments Accommodations

Departmental Assessments Accommodations – in-course credit assessments

Policy Context

Under Section 2.3.3 of Trinity’s Reasonable Accommodation Policy (April 2023):
“Academic Departments and Schools are responsible for coordinating reasonable accommodations outlined in students’ Learning Educational Needs Summary (LENS) reports in in-class assessments.”

This means that any assessment organised by a School or Department that carries credit must apply the same accommodation standards as centrally run College examinations.

The Disability Service, in collaboration with the Examinations and Assessment team, supports staff in ensuring that these accommodations are implemented as set out in each student’s LENS report.

Preparing for Departmental Assessments

Pre-assessment planning involves three key areas:

  1. Identifying students who require accommodations
  2. Setting up appropriate assessment venues
  3. Communicating clearly with students and staff

 

For Academic and Administrative Staff

  1. Identify Students with Accommodations
  • Review your module or course list on SITS/MyTCD to identify students registered with the Disability Service.
  • Consult each student’s LENS report to see what specific accommodations have been approved.
  • Maintain confidentiality when managing accommodation information.
  1. Understand Assessment Accommodations

Common accommodations include:

  • Extra time in written or timed assessments
  • Low-distraction or alternative venues
  • Computer or assistive technology use
  • Rest breaks or flexible scheduling
  • Alternative or modified assessments (where approved)

If unsure how to implement any accommodation, email askds@tcd.ie for advice or confirmation.

 

Setting Up Departmental Assessment Venues

Accommodation Type

Typical Situation

Action Required

Extra Time (Code: GV)

Student requires additional time to complete a written exam

Arrange a nearby seminar or meeting room for the extra-time period. Ensure the space is quiet and supervised.

Low-Distraction Venue (Code: LV)

Several students need a quieter environment

Reserve a separate venue. Avoid mixing students with different exam lengths in the same room.

Laptop Use (Code: PC)

Students need a computer for typing or assistive technology

Use a computer lab or room with stable power, desks, and any required software.

Rest Breaks / Medical Needs

Student needs flexibility due to fatigue or health

Allow supervised breaks or seat the student near an exit if short breaks are needed.

Assistive Technology / Reader / Scribe

Student has specific support arrangements

Confirm access to the required equipment or support staff in advance.

 

Consultation and Communication

  • Consult early: Contact the Rebecca Nzegwu, Disability Assessment Officer by email nzegwur@tcd.ie, if unsure about arrangements or interpreting LENS recommendations.
  • Confirm details: Notify students by email at least one week before the assessment with venue, time, and specific arrangements.
  • Prepare contingencies: Identify a backup venue or staff member in case of unexpected issues (e.g., room changes, equipment faults).

 

For Students

Your Responsibilities in Departmental Assessments

  • Contact your School/Department early: Reach out at least two weeks before the assessment to confirm that your accommodations are in place.
  • Provide documentation: Share your LENS report or the exam accommodation confirmation email from the Disability Service with the relevant module coordinator or administrator.
  • Confirm details: Ensure you know the venue, start time, and how your accommodations will be provided.

If you encounter difficulties or last-minute issues, contact the Disability Service immediately at askds@tcd.ie 

 

Support and Further Information