ASL/CART information for Faculty
ASL/CART Information for Faculty
Supporting accessible communication for students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Disability Accessibility Services (DAS) coordinates ASL interpreting and CART services to ensure equal access in the classroom.
Faculty Quick Guide
Best Practices for an Accessible Classroom
✔️ Speak directly to the student, not the interpreter.
✔️ Share PowerPoint slides or handouts in advance whenever possible.
✔️ Repeat questions or comments from classmates before responding.
✔️ Face the class when speaking and refrain from speaking while writing on the board.
✔️ Notify DAS immediately if your class is canceled, relocated, or changes to Zoom.
Supporting Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing - Faculty Quick Reference Guide
What Faculty Need to Know
📄 Review the Notice
If a student has ASL or CART accommodations, review the accommodation letter and the follow-up email titled "Notice from DAS: Accommodated Student."
📅 Request Support for Meetings
For office hours or other meetings outside of class, submit the Meeting Interpreter Request Form.
Important Reminders
🚫 Class Cancellation or Absence
If you need to cancel class or will be absent, please note that you cannot just let the interpreter and/or student know. You also need to notify DAS as soon as possible and mark your e-mail as High Importance so that interpreter services can be canceled promptly.
💻 Virtual Interpreter Backup
If an in-person interpreter is unavailable, DAS will make every effort to arrange a virtual interpreter via Zoom.
To help ensure a smooth transition, create a recurring Zoom meeting at the beginning of the semester and share the meeting link, Meeting ID, and password (if applicable) with DAS.
Zoom Setup Instructions:
Setting Up a Recurring Zoom Meeting for Virtual Substitute ASL Interpreters
Virtual ASL Interpreters
When Are Virtual Interpreters Used?
Virtual ASL interpreters may be provided when an in-person interpreter is unavailable, including for an entire course or due to a same-day cancellation.
📧 Faculty Notification
DAS will notify instructors by email if a virtual interpreter has been assigned. For ongoing virtual services, a DAS Coordinator will provide guidance and best practices.
📅 Same-Day Substitute
If a virtual substitute is needed for a specific class, DAS will notify instructors by email and calendar invitation.
🔗 Classroom Zoom Instructions
Opening Zoom in the Classroom for Virtual ASL Interpreters
Need Assistance?
Questions about interpreters, CART services, Zoom classes, or accommodations? We're happy to help.
CCRI does not employ staff interpreters. Disability Accessibility Services (DAS) coordinates with the Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CDHH) and local agencies to provide qualified in-person interpreters and CART reporters for students who are deaf or use sign language.