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Introduction
Introduction
WSU ROAR students audit your course to build real-world knowledge, develop academic confidence, and grow their independence. To support meaningful engagement, we might modify some course assignments so ROAR students can demonstrate their learning in ways that align with their strengths and goals.
Assignment modifications are designed to provide accessible and inclusive pathways for students to engage with your content. For example, a student might submit a slideshow presentation or record a short video instead of writing a traditional paper. These adjustments support participation while maintaining high expectations and academic integrity.
Our goal is always the same: to help each student learn, contribute, and succeed.
Why Do We Modify Assignments?
Why Do We Modify Assignments?
Every student learns and communicates differently. For some ROAR students, traditional assignments like essays or multi-step projects may not offer the most accessible or effective way to demonstrate their understanding.
Assignment modifications help remove barriers to learning while maintaining the core learning goals of your course. For example:
Instead of a three-page essay, a ROAR student might submit a slideshow or drawing to summarize key ideas.
In place of a classroom debate, a ROAR student may record a short video sharing their perspective.
Modifications are always aligned with the spirit of your assignment and never require you to adjust your instruction. While ROAR students do not receive credit as auditing participants, you have the option of providing feedback on their submissions.
Please note that assignment modifications are not made within your Canvas course. Instead, ROAR staff work directly with students to co-create alternative ways to demonstrate knowledge, based on the learning goals of your class.
Types of Modifications We Make
Types of Modifications We Make
Here are a few common modified submissions you may encounter:
Format Shifts
ROAR students might use a slideshow, video, drawing, infographic, comic strip, or poster to demonstrate their understanding instead of submitting a written paper.Adjusted Length or Scope
Assignments may include fewer questions, shorter responses, or simplified vocabulary, while still reflecting key concepts and critical thinking. For example, a student may respond to essay prompts in bullet points, or answer two selected questions from a set of ten.Guided Responses
We may provide sentence starters, graphic organizers, or templates to help students structure their ideas. Students might complete journals, checklists, or even use creative or art-based formats.Alternative Participation
When a presentaiton or group activity isn't accessible, students may engage in a parallel experience such as attending an event and reflecting on it, or submitting group contributions individually via Canvas.
Each modification is tailored to the student's learning preferences and your course's learning goals. If you're ever unsure about a student's submission or want clarification, feel free to reach out.
The Use of AI Tools like ChatGPT or Copilot
The Use of AI Tools like ChatGPT or Copilot
For many people with IDD, putting thoughts into writing can be challenging. At WSU ROAR, we teach students to use AI tools like Copilot or ChatGPT as supports, and not to generate ideas. They use the tools to help them better express their own thoughts. Students are instructed to write their original thoughts first, then use AI to refine or format those thoughts.
Example: If a ROAR student is asked to write a paragraph on the water cycle, their coach might help them outline their ideas or write a rough draft. The student could then use ChatGPT to improve grammar and clarity and turn their rough draft into a paragraph, keeping the thinking their own while using AI as a scaffold for success.
Transparency in Use
Transparency in Use
To promote responsible and reflective use of AI, we ask that students who use AI tools in their assignments include:
The prompt(s) they entered into the AI tool
The response(s) they received from the tool
This helps instructors and coaches understand how the student is using AI to support their learning, and provides valuable insight into the student's thought process and engagement. If you have TAs who help you with grading in Canvas, please share this context with them.
Exams and Tests
Exams and Tests
According to WSU's audit policy, ROAR students are not required to take exams or quizzes, and instructors are not obligated to grade them. However, many ROAR students choose to participate in assessments as a way to track their learning and feel included in the classroom experience.
If a student would like to take exams in your course, they'll typically notify you in the first or second week of the semester. ROAR staff can help coordinate the process. We're happy to proctor exams in a quiet, supported setting. All we need from you is:
A copy of the exam (or a Canvas access code)
Any relevant exam parameters (e.g., time limits, open book, use of notes, etc.)
We'll handle printing, proctoring, and delivery. After the exam, the student will return it to you in class or duing office hours.
Grading is not expected, buf if you choose to provide feedback, know that we frame test results as learning opportunities, not judgments. For example, if a student scores 5 out of 50, we celebrate that they got 5 right! The student may set a personal goal to improve on the next exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my syllabus or assignments?
Do I need to change my syllabus or assignments?
No, you do not. WSU ROAR staff will work with students directly on assignment modifications. Keep teaching and assigning content as you normally do.
How will I know if something has been modified?
How will I know if something has been modified?
Typically, modifications to assignments will be obvious, like if you were to see a PowerPoint file on Canvas where you were expecting a Word document. We encourage students to label modified submissions in Canvas or when emailing. For example, "ENGLISH 101 Paper - Modified". You can also reach out to ROAR staff if you're unsure.
What if I think a modification doesn't meet the learning goals of the assignment?
What if I think a modification doesn't meet the learning goals of the assignment?
Let us know! We want to collaborate with you. We always try to make sure the student's alternative submissions still capture the core goals and skills you're teaching, and we are happy to adjust.
Do I need to grade modified assignments?
Do I need to grade modified assignments?
Nope! ROAR students are audit students. You're welcome to give feedback if you'd like, but you're not responsible for grading them. We will provide support and feedback on our end.
Can I suggest modifications?
Can I suggest modifications?
Yes, please! If you have an idea for how a ROAR student can show their learning, go ahead and tell them! For example, in lieu of a classroom presentation, one instructor asked ROAR students to instead create a flier on a class topic. The students were very excited to do this as they had just learned how to create fliers on Canva in their Digital Literacy ROAR course. You know your course best, and we're very happy to hear your ideas.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Assignment modifications ensure that ROAR students have the chance to learn, contribute, and grow in your classroom. They simply provide an accessible way for each student to engage. We're here to support you, and we appreciate your partnership in creating an inclusive campus experience.
Quick Reference Checklist: Dos and Don'ts
Quick Reference Checklist: Dos and Don'ts
Do
Do
Do keep teaching in your usual way
Do reach out to ROAR staff with questions, ideas, or concerns
Do encourage students to try modified assignments
Do provide feedback if you can - ROAR students value your input
Do review student bios to learn more about how they engage best
Don't
Don't
Don't feel like you need to change your syllabus or grading policy
Don't expect ROAR students to complete every assignment in the exact same format
Don't penalize students for submitting alternative formats
Don't hesitate to speak up if a modification doesn't feel right - we're here to support!
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