Remote Participation

Remote participation (virtually attending in-person classes) is considered on a case-by-case basis after evaluating the student’s disability information. SAS will first consider if the accommodation is appropriate for the disability and if there are other alternative accommodations that would meet the student’s need. Alternative accommodations may include but are not limited to priority scheduling to access already-online course sections, the use of door-to-door transportation to assist with maneuvering campus, and flexibility with breaks or attendance to accommodate exacerbations in disability symptoms.

If the accommodation is appropriate, SAS must also consider if the accommodation would alter the essential nature of a course. Because Kent State is a primarily face-to-face institution and faculty make decisions about what content is appropriate for online delivery, there will be limitations to which classes can accommodate remote participation. Remote participation requests can only be approved for a limited length of time, as SAS cannot change the delivery method for entire programs. Where possible, students should enroll in online sections of courses to ensure the best possible remote learning environment.

Because this accommodation is complicated, evaluating these requests can take several weeks and may require additional documentation. Documentation for remote participation requests should discuss the symptoms and severity of the disability, the impact of attending classes in person during the specified time period, and information about why other potential accommodations cannot appropriately accommodate the student’s disability. Students requesting this accommodation should contact SAS prior to the start of a semester. Any approved remote participation accommodations must be re-evaluated each semester.