DARE Information Session 31 st August 2016 Fiona Sweeney, Manager Lisa Padden, Academic Skills Coordinator Julie Tonge, Disability Adviser

Overview ScholarshipsUCD Academic InformationPrinciples of disability support in UCDRegistering for disability supportAcademic Skills SupportUCD Relationship with ParentsWhat if the student does not like their course and/or UCD? Opportunity to ask questions – please write down any questions that come to mind on the post-its provided as we go through the presentation.

Scholarships Advertised on our website Deadline for application 30 th of September Valued at €1500 per annum for the normal duration of the scholar’s programme of study. Widening Participation Scholarship Value of the awards is dependent on the number of eligible applications received. NUI Scholarship for Students with a Physical Disability

UCD Academic Information Most modules (subjects) are 5 credits. Therefore most students take 12 modules in a year. Students must complete 60 credits in each academic year. End of semester exams Continuous assessment (essays, projects, presentations etc.) Attendance and participation in class Modules are assessed in a variety of ways including: Students are expected to attend all lectures and tutorials.

UCD Academic Information Students receive their semester 1 exam results in January via their online accounts. Results are not sent home, and will not be given to anyone other than the student. If the student does not pass one of their modules, they may be able to repeat the assessment in semester 2 (cost €230 per module). If no repeat is offered in semester 2 the student must complete the outstanding module the following academic year. There are no summer resits in UCD. If there is a family emergency or other unexpected difficulties (e.g. serious illness) students should contact their programme office immediately.

Module Registration Information - Dates Online Registration will close at 2pm so places in general elective modules can be allocated Friday, 9 September 2016 from 2pm Online Registration reopens on a phased basis between 12.00pm and 4.00pm. Fully open by 4.00pm Saturday, 10 September 2016 Online Registration closes at 5.00pm Friday, 23 September 2016

Student Desk Schedule

UCD Academic Supports Lecturers/tutors Maths Support Centre Academic Writing Clinic Programme Student Advisers Programme Based Peer Assisted Learning

Principles of disability support in UCD Needs Assessment Focus on first year Independent learning Student determines level of contact

Types of support available Alternative exam arrangements Assistive Technology (AT) – small deposit required Academic Skills Support

What are Academic Skills? Academic Skills Co-ordinator Suite of Group based skills workshops Online resources Drop-in sessions Technology Support

Academic Skills Workshops Note Taking & Time Management Academic Writing Study Skills Research Skills Presentations & Group Work Personal Development & Employability Stress Management Exam Preparation

Who knows I am registered for Disability Support in UCD? Strict confidentiality Student Record System – limited access Module Co- ordinator Class Lists Certificate of Registration

Registering for Disability Support Students must register with the Access Centre so a support plan can be agreed – they are not registered now! One to one Needs AssessmentDARE Documentation is sufficient Student and needs assessor agree upon supports based on the requirements of the student’s course, their experience to date, evidence of disability and national guidelines (similar supports are available in all Irish universities).

UCD Exam Accommodations Students must register by the 21 st October to ensure that they receive exam accommodations for end of semester 1 exams. Students will not receive exam accommodations for in-class tests unless they request them directly from the Module Coordinator using their Certificate of Registration.

UCD Relationship with Parents UCD is not permitted to discuss any student with a third party, including that student’s parent/guardian. This includes attendance, exam results, registration, grants, disability supports. HOWEVER If you are worried or have questions please We will answer any general questions you have. We will work with you and the student to resolve any problems.

What if the student does not like their course and/or UCD? Most students settle in really well. Occasionally students find the course is not what they were expecting. Students should discuss their concerns with their programme office or another member of staff as soon as possible. If a student wishes to withdraw they must complete the withdrawal form online and return their student card.

Fees Implications of withdrawal Students are liable for fees up to the date they officially withdraw from the university. Before 21 st October 2016 – there will be no fees owed. Before 31 st January 2017– half a year’s tuition fees owed (also half the Student Contribution Charge and half the Student Centre Levy) After Feb 1 st 2017 – full year tuition fees owed (also full payment of Student Contribution Charge and Student Centre Levy)

Student Accommodation Students who have yet to find suitable accommodation should contact the Accommodation Booking and Support Office who can assist students with both on campus and off campus accommodation. This office is located at the rear of the Merville Central Office in the Merville Student Residences and can be contacted on or This office also has a dedicated website, which shows listings of houses, flats, apartments, lodgings and general self- catering accommodation.

Questions Thanks for coming!