Alternate Testing

Full Alternative Testing Procedure

DSPS administers tests/quizzes to qualified students who have a verified disability and who have been authorized for alternative testing by a DSPS Specialist. This is done as a service for the student and the instructor. The same standards of conduct for any testing environment apply when taking a test administered by DSPS Support Services office.

1. A DSPS Specialist or Counselor verifies the disability, determines the need, and authorizes alternative testing.
2. Student requests an Authorization to Administer Test form from DSPS Support Services office at least:
1. One week in advance for each test date.
2. Two weeks in advance for finals.
3. Students meet with their instructors during the instructor’s office hours to complete the Authorization to Administer Test form:
1. Fill out Authorization to Administer Test form.
2. Obtain instructor’s signature on form.
3. Agree on testing dates and times.
4. Agree on materials and aids to be used during test.
5. Student returns signed original form to DSPS Support Services office:
• One week in advance for each test date.
• Two weeks in advance for a final.
6. Instructor retains gold copy of form.
7. Student retains pink copy of form.
4. When a computer, CCTV, and other specialized equipment are authorized and/or required for a test, the student must schedule the equipment with the appropriate Assistive Technology Center staff before returning the authorization form to DSPS Support Services office.
5. Once the authorization form is turned in, the student reports directly to DSPS Support Services office on the day and time of the test.
6. All testing materials and aids must be approved and authorized on the testing form by the instructor and/or specialist prior to testing time. DSPS Support Services staff will administer the test as specified on the authorization form. If the student has a question during testing time, DSPS Support Services staff will attempt to reach the instructor or specialist. There is no guarantee an instructor or specialist can be contacted during DSPS Alternative Testing. The DSPS Support Services staff cannot answer any test questions if they are unable to locate the instructor or specialist.
7. Students are expected to enter the testing room with test materials only. All testing materials are subject to inspection by the DSPS Support Staff before, during, or after the testing period. Any support-testing material, e.g., three by five card, etc., will be collected at the end of the testing session and returned to the instructor with the student’s test.

Remember

8. If the instructor changes the test date or time, the student must notify the DSPS Support Services staff; otherwise the test will be returned to the instructor as a “No Show.”
9. DSPS Support Services will adhere strictly to the beginning and ending times on the Authorization to Administer Test form. There is a ten-minute late grace period to begin the exam. If the student arrives after that grace period, the student may start the test but must finish within the allotted test time. The student may choose to postpone the test and restart the process (new Alternative Testing Form). Any new testing times or arrangements are strictly at the discretion of the instructor.
10. Student taking test may not talk with other students or tutors during Alternative Testing. Please do not leave the testing room/lab after beginning an exam unless you have permission from the DSPS Support Services or Assistive Technology Lab staff. Restroom breaks are permitted every two hours. Support Services’ staff must approve and escort all restroom breaks.

Please note the DSPS Alternative Testing Room
 is under surveillance and is videotaped.

IF ANY EVIDENCE OF CHEATING IS OBSERVED:

• the exam will be stopped;
• all materials will be confiscated;
• the instructor will be notified immediately; and
• the matter will be turned over to the instructor for further action.
• DSPS Support Services Coordinator will file a Student Misconduct Report with the Vice President of Student Services

The decision on a course of action is left to the discretion of the instructor within established institutional policies.

Any violation of the Suspension of DSPS Services policy or the Cuesta College Student Code of Conduct will be enforced. Suspension of future testing accommodations will be determined following a review by the DSPS Director, DSPS Support Services Coordinator, Instructor, and DSPS Specialist.

If testing accommodation is to be suspended, the student will receive written notification. To appeal this decision, the student should meet with the DSPS Director. The student may also file a complaint with the District 504/ADA Coordinator.

If at any point you are unclear about your exam instructions or conditions, stop immediately and get assistance from a DSPS Support Services staff member.

• DSPS Support Services Reception Desk, SLO Campus, Bldg. 3300, or 546-3100 x2527 V, or (805) 546-3149 TDD or 546-3148 V/TDD
• DSPS Support Services, NC Campus, Room N3024, or (805) 591-6215 or (805) 591-6216 TDD

Alternate Testing Homepage

Return to Top

Page maintained by dspsweb@cuesta.edu. Last modified: 11/07/2003.