Deaf and hard of hearing services

Supporting Equitable Access at WSU Vancouver

WSU Vancouver is committed to providing equal access for students who are Deaf or hard of hearing. Through the Student Accommodations and Disability Resources office, students can access a variety of essential services including American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART), assistive listening devices, and closed captioning. These resources ensure that every student has the tools necessary to participate fully in both academic and extracurricular campus life.

To ensure seamless support, students work closely with the Interpreter Coordinator and the Student Accommodations and Disability Resources Manager. By utilizing the MyAccess portal, students can manage their approved accommodations, submit custom requests for non-class events, and coordinate with service providers. Providing advanced notice and maintaining clear communication regarding schedule changes helps the university maintain the high standard of accessibility that defines our campus community.

Academic Accommodations through MyAccess

To receive services for your courses, you must request them through the MyAccess portal.

1. Log into MyAccess: Use your WSU Network ID and password at the MyAccess Student Portal.
2. Select Accommodations: Under each course, check the box for Interpreting, Real time captioning/CART, or other approved services.
3. Submit: This notifies the coordinator to arrange your providers.

Request Timeline

Students should use Priority Registration and submit requests at least six weeks before the start of the term. Advanced notice is critical as these services require significant coordination. Delays in requests may result in a delay of service provision.

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ASL Interpreting Services

Non-Class Related Events

You may request an interpreter for WSU-sponsored meetings, study groups, or extracurricular activities.

• Requirement: Meet with the Student Accommodations and Disability Resources Manager at least once to review policies before your first request.
• Timeline: Submit custom requests at least two weeks in advance.
• How to Request: Use the Custom Request link on the Access Center website.

Best Practices for Interpreting

• Email van.communication.access@wsu.edu with your class schedule and locations.
• Notify the Interpreter Coordinator at least 24 hours in advance if you will miss a class.
• Wait Policy: Interpreters will wait 15 minutes. Arrivals after 15 minutes are considered no-shows.
• Three no-shows without notification require a meeting with the department manager before services continue.

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CART (Real-Time Captioning)

How to Request

1. Apply: New users must first apply for accommodations.
2. Sign E-Forms: Review and sign required forms in MyAccess.
3. Submit Requests: Check the box for Real time captioning/CART for each specific course.

Request Timeline

Submit requests at least six weeks before the term begins. For non-class events, provide at least two weeks of notice.

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Assistive Listening Devices

Request and Pickup

1. Select Amplification device/FM System in MyAccess.
2. Follow the instructions sent via email to arrange an in-person equipment pickup.

Timeline and Maintenance

Request devices six weeks before the term to ensure your classes are placed in rooms with compatible infrared or FM systems.

• Technical Issues: If a device fails, contact van.evita@wsu.edu or call 360-546-9440 for technical support.

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Closed Captioning

Faculty are responsible for ensuring course videos and online materials are captioned.

• Student Action: Select Closed Captioning in MyAccess at least six weeks before the term.
• Inaccurate Captions: If a video lacks accurate captions, notify the Student Accommodations and Disability Resources Manager immediately so they can work with faculty and IT to resolve the issue.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I have a State Waiver and register late. What should I do? Email van.accommodations@wsu.edu in advance with the classes you plan to take. This allows us to begin scheduling providers before you officially register.

Can faculty request services for me? Yes. Faculty and staff can request ASL or CART services for university-sponsored events and meetings by using the Custom Request link or contacting the department directly.

What if my provider does not show up?

• For Interpreters: Contact the Interpreter Coordinator immediately.
• For CART: Contact Student Accommodations and Disability Resources immediately.
• Stay in class for 15 minutes. If a substitute cannot be found, ask your instructor for lecture notes or slides to ensure you do not miss information.