Memory Aid Accommodation
What is a memory aid accommodation?
A memory aid is a testing accommodation for students who have disability‑related memory challenges. It provides brief cues to help students recall information they have already studied, such as acronyms, key terms, short phrases, diagrams, or formulas. Memory aids do not replace learning the material; if a student does not understand the content, the aid will not help.
Typically provided as a notecard or sheet of paper, a memory aid helps students demonstrate their knowledge without overtaxing memory or processing speeds. It does not reduce academic standards or change what is being assessed.
Memory aids may contain cues such as: acronyms, short phrases, pictures, schematic diagrams, formulas, names, definitions, tables, or key terms. A memory aid is not meant to record all the facts, concepts, or processes being tested.
While the use of a memory aid is an accommodation, instructors determine what may be included to protect the course’s essential requirements. If recalling specific information is a key learning objective (for example, memorizing a formula), that information should not appear on the memory aid. However, if the objective is to apply the formula, then including it may be appropriate.
Memory aids can be created at any time, but must be approved by the instructor before each exam.
What Does a Memory Aid Look Like?
Instructors determine the appropriate type and size of a memory aid. Examples include:
- A 3"×5" notecard with acronyms or mnemonics
- A single‑sided 8.5"×11" sheet with key terminology
- An approved PDF of diagrams for an online exam
What is NOT considered a memory aid?
Because a memory aid is only meant to prompt recall of information the student already knows, it should not contain full course content. The following are not considered memory aids:
- Textbook pages
- Class notes, lecture slides, or similar materials
- Practice problems or previous homework
Approving Memory Aids
Students approved for a memory aid must first send their accommodation notice to the instructor. The instructor must review and approve the memory aid before it can be used on an exam.
For in‑class or instructor‑proctored exams:
The instructor reviews and approves the memory aid directly and allows its use as appropriate.
For exams taken in Accessibility Resources (AR):
Instructor confirmation of the memory aid’s content is required. The process is:
- The student submits the proposed memory aid to the instructor at least 3 school days before the exam.
- The instructor provides the approved memory aid to AR by one of the following:
- Scanning and emailing it to examaccess@mnsu.edu for AR to print with the exam
- Emailing AR a scan or photo to confirm its contents
- Delivering the physical memory aid to AR in Memorial Library 132
- Campus mail is discouraged.
This process ensures the memory aid cannot be altered before the exam. Instructors may choose a less secure approval method (such as initialing the aid or confirming by email). Unless the instructor states otherwise, the memory aid will be turned in with the test.
INstructor Considerations
When reviewing a memory aid, instructors should consider the learning objectives of the course and the specific exam. Key questions include whether students are expected to recall information from memory or demonstrate their ability to apply concepts.
Memory aids are intended to provide equitable access for students with disability‑related memory challenges while still upholding course objectives. Instructors determine what content is appropriate for the memory aid and may choose to give feedback or specify what is allowed.
Questions or Concerns
If you believe allowing a memory aid would fundamentally alter the course objectives, or if you have general questions about this accommodation, please contact Accessibility Resources. We are happy to work with you to support the students’ needs while maintaining the academic rigor of the course.
Accommodated Testing Team
Accessibility Resources
examaccess@mnsu.edu
507-389-2825
