Student Handbook

University Support Services

University Program for Students with Learning Disabilities (UPLD)

Accessing Accommodations and Services

To access accommodations and services, students with diagnosed learning disabilities (LD) must submit documentation to verify eligibility under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Protection under these civil rights statutes is determined on a case-by-case basis. Documentation of an LD that currently and substantially limits some major life activity including learning must be provided to the UPLD office. The University’s guidelines for documentation of a specific learning disability can be found at www.upld.uconn.edu.

Program Description

Accommodations including but not limited to testing (e.g., extended test time), notetaking assistance, and alternate format textbooks are determined by program staff and implemented in collaboration with the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD). Students are encouraged to work with their academic advisors to plan coursework in a way that affords an opportunity for success. On a case-by-case basis, this may include a reduced courseload and extending the time period for degree completion. In conjunction with accommodations, services are offered along a 3-tiered continuum leading to increased self-determination. Components of Direct Instruction, Monitoring, and Consultation are illustrated in the UPLD Continuum of Services.

Many students with LD who have been successful in high school or at other postsecondary institutions find a need to develop or refine their “tools for success” in UCONN’s competitive academic environment. A trained staff of Learning Specialists (graduate students pursuing Masters and Doctoral degrees) are available to assist students in developing learning strategies to apply to their college coursework. UPLD is placing a new emphasis on helping students develop technology-based strategies for academic success. All sessions are one-to-one and planned and scheduled in response to students’ goals each semester. Learning Specialists work with students to identify which level of program services will best meet their individual needs. Most students find it beneficial to access services at the Direct Instruction level and to progress at an individual rate through the UPLD Continuum as they experience increasing confidence and competence. Support services are available at no cost and for as long as a student needs them.

UPLD staff members also assist students as they enhance their self-advocacy skills for consulting directly with faculty regarding accommodations and related learning needs. Similarly, Learning Specialists encourage students to make use of existing campus resources such as the CSD, Academic Center for Entering Students (ACES), the Speech and Hearing Clinic, Writing Center, “Q” (Math) Center, Counseling and Mental Health Services, and Career Services. Learning Specialists can assist students in monitoring their application of learning strategies and self-advocacy skills as they utilize the University’s extensive resources.

Please note that the one-to-one services of the Direct Instruction and Monitoring levels are available on a space permitting, first come, first served basis. If no positions are available at the Direct Instruction or Monitoring levels, students will be placed on a waiting list for these services but can receive Consultation services until a position becomes available. Also note that there is no limit on the number of students who can receive services at the Consultation level. All students registered with UPLD are eligible to receive individually appropriate accommodations.