Memory Aid Sheet Testing Accommodation Policy

A Memory Aid Sheet is a testing accommodation used by students having trouble with memory and recall due to cognitive processing deficits. It provides support to those with documented deficits in rote memory, sequencing memory, working memory, and/or long-term memory, not by providing the answer. Students are responsible for learning course materials, for discerning which materials may require cues or triggers, for developing the cues that will appear on the aid, and for securing the instructors approval of the aid. Although Memory Aid Sheets can look different for each course, there are also some classes which do not lend themselves to the use of such an accommodation. Additionally, this accommodation will be determined on a case-by-case basis for each course.

Styles of memory aids may vary. Generally, they can be written or typed, 10 or 12 font, on a large index card, OR up to one side of an 8 ½” x 11” sheet of paper. At the discretion of the Disability Services office and the instructor, it will be determined what a memory aid sheet may contain. 

A Memory Aid Sheet is a tool which prompts recall of information that would otherwise be inaccessible to a student in a testing situation. It is not meant to provide a record for all material being tested or serve as an “open book” or “open notes” on the exam or quiz. Therefore, a Memory Aid Sheet does not:

• Include examples of how formulas are used.
• Include complete terms or definitions.
• Include textbooks.
• Include course notes.
• Serve as a substitute for studying.

Students who request a Memory Aid Sheet accommodation must submit documentation to the Disability Services office from a qualified professional able to determine and support the students need for this accommodation.

Documentation should confirm through testing that there is a deficit in rote memory, sequencing memory, working memory, and/or long-term memory. Additionally, it should include a description of the disability and its current impact in an educational setting, and past use and effectiveness of the accommodation. Please keep in mind, however, that as with all accommodations, Disability Services will make the final determination regarding approval of a Memory Aid Sheet testing accommodation.

If the faculty member is concerned the Memory Aid accommodation is unreasonable because it will lower standards, compromise an essential component of or fundamentally alter a course or program, such concerns should be addressed to the disability services office via email.  The determination that an accommodation is unreasonable is an institutional decision that must be made within legal and compliance parameters and in consultation with the Disability Services office.  Faculty should not unilaterally render and attempt to implement a judgement that an accommodation is unreasonable.

• Renew your accommodations each semester via the online accommodation portal.
• Review your course to determine which classes you need to request a Memory Aid Sheet.
• Prior to your exam or quiz, create and submit your Memory Aid Sheet to your instructor.
• Receive approval of your Memory Aid Sheet from your instructor.
• If you are taking your exam in Disability Services, submit your Memory Aid Sheet with your exam materials upon completion of your exam or quiz.

• It is your responsibility to work with your Accommodation Coordinator and instructor regarding this accommodation.
• This accommodation is not retroactive.
• Memory Aid Sheets are intended to accommodate the direct effects of a documented disability.
• The Memory Aid Sheet must be approved by your instructor prior to using it on your quiz or exam. We recommend that you submit it at least one week prior to your exam or quiz.
• Memory Aid Sheets should not be allowed if the information included on the sheet would be contrary to the learning objective of the course.
• The assessment of your academic performance will be held to the same standard as all other students.
• Disability Services has already reviewed and considered any necessary documentation. You are not required to present your instructor with additional documentation verifying your need for a Memory Aid Sheet.
• Given the specific analysis for each course, it is entirely possible that the use of a memory aid will be allowed for some exams, and not allowed for others.