Do university students with disabilities have access to alternative testing methods?
This question refers only to university students. In the US, for example, some universities offer courses that require students to sit no exams – their performance is measured by way of course work, assignments etc. Please describe what measures, if any, are being taken to provide alternative testing methods to those with disabilities?

Relates to Convention Article:

  • No.24, Education

In detail

Brief explanation of the question

Article 24 prescribes that “States Parties shall ensure an inclusive education system at all levels and life long learning…In realizing this right, States Parties…shall ensure that…Reasonable accommodation of the individual’s requirements is provided; Persons with disabilities receive the support required, within the general education system, to facilitate their effective education; Effective individualized support measures are provided in environments that maximize academic and social development, consistent with the goal of full inclusion”.

The question refers only to university students as a representative group. It asks whether the testing methods utilised are accessible to persons with various types of disabilities and whether alternative testing methods to written and oral tests are offered. For some students with disabilities, these may, for example, include their not having to sit exams, but having their performance tested alternatively through course work, participation, assignments, etc. The question refers only to “access to” and not to “the right to” alternative testing methods.

Summary of results

The EU is doing comparatively well with alternative testing methods for students, situation that can be clearly proved by the number of green light given in Europe.

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