Athabasca University is taking another step forward in its commitment to removing barriers and providing access like no other with the launch of a new accommodation management platform, AU Accommodate. This new platform will make it easier for students to access the accommodations and supports they need to succeed.
AU Accommodate streamlines how students connect with Accessibility Services, offering a more intuitive and accessible experience where they can easily initiate requests and access supports such as extended exam time, assistive technology, accessible learning materials, and advising.
“Every learner comes to AU with a unique path and set of circumstances,” said Carrie Anton, accessibility services coordinator. “This system helps ensure learners can access supports in a way that reflects the flexibility that makes AU truly like no other university.”
Supporting flexible learning at AU
Each year more students are turning to Accessibility Services for accommodations—currently there are more than 3,000 students registered, and the team has been handling more than 100 new registrations each month. Each new registration means collaborating with the student to understand the barriers they’re facing, reviewing medical documentation, and creating a customized accommodation plan.
Previously, many of these steps were done manually, using multiple forms or systems to keep track of these requests. This often led to long wait times, and for students, a lack of transparency with the accommodation process.
The new system streamlines these processes and gives students the ability to initiate requests, track progress, and manage their accommodations in one place. Automating the administrative process frees up time for staff in Accessibility Services to focus on what matters most—supporting students.
AU Accommodate helps ensure learners can access supports in a way that reflects the flexibility that makes AU truly like no other university.
Carrie Anton, Accessibility Services Coordinator
Related: Accessibility Services coordinator breaks down barriers
Strengthening access and connection
The launch of AU Accommodate comes after a comprehensive survey and discovery process. Staff found students were largely unaware of how to request accommodation, and those who did were frustrated with long wait times and confusing processes. The new system addresses many of these concerns by allowing students to see where their accommodations are at.
“We’re really looking forward to implementing this new software for accommodation requests,” said Anton. “Following a comprehensive survey and discovery process, it was clear to us that there were areas of improvement to be made in the accommodations process, and we think this will be a great solution for our learners and team members.”
To learn more about AU Accommodate and Accessibility Services, visit the Accessibility Services website.