What to expect from an online DSA assessment
Annie Mannion | 26 Jul 2022This blog has been updated! Originally published 30/03/20. Amended 26/07/22
AbilityNet has conducted needs assessments online for many years, including customers in the workplace and international students.
As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded we were quickly able to offer a video-based DSA assessment for students.
It may seem odd that such a personal process can be conducted online but this brief guide explains the practicalities.
You can book an online DSAs assessment via our website.
Step-by-step online DSAs assessments
- We send you a video link to connect with your assessor - our admin team will help if you need to download the app.
- You join the call from the comfort of your home.
- Your assessor will talk through the challenges you have related to study.
- They will listen to your experience demonstrate possible software and hardware options and talk about your preferences.
- They will make recommendations about the options which will help you.
- You will receive a report that details the discussion.
- Once that report has been approved by the funding body you will be good to go!
What students have said about the online assessment process
- "The booking process is really easy and having a remote assessment is very convenient."
- "Everything went really well, and was really smooth, the assessor was understanding and patient."
- "The process of connecting with the assessor is straightforward, and the screenshare demonstrating kit works well."
- "It is more convenient due to being at home, and showing the software was still easy."
- "It was generally more comfortable, felt less formal and more like a general conversation."
- I thought I would prefer face-to-face, but having had an online assessment I would definitely choose the online option in the future."
- "I didn’t have to take time off work. The kids were off school, but the assessor was unfazed by it, and even advised how I could blur the screen."
- "I preferred to meet online because of my social anxiety."
Any questions?
Contact us for more information and check out our frequently asked questions about DSA assessments.
Book an online DSAs assessment
Further resources:
- Read our factsheet: How to get support from Disabled Students’ Allowances as a student living with a learning difference, disability, physical or mental health condition
- Support our Claim It! campaign
- Need help with your university's digital accessibility? Find out our services about Digital Accessibility in Higher and Further Education