Audio Recording
When audio recording has been deemed necessary as a disability-related accommodation by AAS, it will be listed in the student’s accommodation plan.
- Audio recording is deemed a necessary accommodation when the student has disability-related barriers that impact their ability to take notes or attend to lecture material during a synchronous or in-person course or lecture.
- Students are responsible for their own audio recordings and need to connect with their instructor(s) to discuss permissions and parameters in advance of any recording (preferably at the start of the semester).
- Students are encouraged to put their request in an email (template below), copying their Student Accommodation Facilitator (if desired) who can be available to assist if any concerns arise.
- In your request, include:
- the details of the class (course code, section);
- request for permission to record, reminding your instructor you have an accommodation for audio recording;
- confirmation you have signed an audio recording agreement with AAS, acknowledging that the recording is for your own exclusive academic use and will be deleted after the course ends;
- your Student Accommodation Facilitator via CC on the email if you like.
Dear Professor [NAME]
My name is [YOUR NAME]. I am a student in your [COURSE NAME, CODE, & SECTION] class.
I am registered with AAS and sent you my accommodation plan, which includes audio-recording of lectures. I require this accommodation for disability-related reasons in order to fully participate in the class, and am writing to request to use this accommodation in your course.
I have signed an agreement with AAS acknowledging that the recording is for my own exclusive academic use and will be deleted after the course ends.
I have cc'd my Student Accommodation Facilitator, if you have any questions.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
[YOUR NAME]
[STUDENT NUMBER]
- Prior to approaching instructors about this accommodation, students are expected to complete the (google form) AAS Student Recording Agreement form (external link) , which is stored on the student’s file within AAS.
- Please note that the fair dealing exception in the Copyright Act (external link) permits students to use other people’s copyright material for the purpose of private study and educational purposes, provided that what they do with the work is “fair”.
Recordings may not be possible in some situations, such as:
- Labs or interactive seminars;
- Classroom discussions in which students are sharing information about their own personal or confidential experiences, particularly related to sensitive topics;
- Guest lecturers.
- Students who would like to learn helpful tools and strategies for using their audio recording accommodation in the classroom can speak with a Learning and Assistive Technology Strategist for assistance. Book a learning strategy/assistive technology (LS/AT) appointment here.
- Students who need support or instructors who require consultation or assistance regarding audio-recording can contact the Student Accommodation Facilitator (contact details available on the accommodation plan).