Special Accommodations are any adjustment to the original exam structure or execution processes to provide a fair experience. Proctors, Inc. is equipped to offer accommodations to the full spectrum of candidates who need certification. Since Proctors, Inc.’s inception, they have been passionate about making the test taking process enjoyable and accessible to everyone. With the proper documentation, and direction before the exam administration, Proctors, Inc. prides itself on an inclusive environment for all.
Proctors, Inc. provides Readers and special accommodations Proctors upon request. The need for a Reader for an exam is always contingent upon the specific needs of the candidate testing. At Proctors, Inc., we tailor the experience to ensure the candidate is given the equal playing field they deserve, in their attempt at certification. Whether it’s assistance with comprehension, or candidates who need the entire exam read to them verbatim, Proctors, Inc. works with each candidate personally, to ensure fairness and accessibility for all and that their specific needs are met at the administration. These revisions enable candidates with physical impairments, learning difficulties, or limited English-language proficiency in presenting their experience and abilities in the testing room. For example, changes to the testing environment may include an exam Reader, extra time for test completion, or the use of a calculator when it is not permitted on an exam.
Standardized exams and other high-stakes assessments open the door to educational and job possibilities. It is virtually impossible to attain such goals without taking a standardized entrance or proficiency exam—whether applying as a freshman in college, or for a graduate program or attempting to earn a certification for a professional license or trade certification. Proctors, Inc. understands the need and has the Proctor available to ensure people with disabilities have equal access to the testing process. As a result, exam administration accommodations are quite common.
Are Special Accommodations Mandatory?
Yes, mandating testing organizations comply and offer modified versions of the exams to make them more accessible to students with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) assures that individuals with disabilities can compete for and explore educational and employment opportunities. The added benefit is that such testing accommodations allow measuring a test-taker’s true aptitude while providing an equal opportunity.
Special accommodations can impact the way test items are presented to students, how they respond to them, and when or where the exam is given. Additionally, they can affect the timing and assessment planning. Testing accommodations do not allow for changes to the test’s framework or invalidate the results.
Special accommodations take proper preparation before the exam to ensure a smooth process. Having that awareness, allows the Proctor to not draw attention to the adjustments to the process but instead to create an inclusive environment that provides the person taking the exam with the best ethical opportunity when seeking certification.
