Lab/Discussion Assistant

Lab Assistant

A lab assistant is a student hired by the CSD who assists with various lab requirements and procedures that students are unable to complete (e.g., retrieval of supplies or equipment). Lab assistants are hired to aid students with disabilities with the physical mechanics and dexterity requirements of lab activities (e.g., lifting, pouring, etc.). Lab assistants are required to complete the appropriate health and safety trainings as required by the Division of Environmental Health and Safety. The provision of a lab assistant is not considered a substitute for a student’s full participation in each lab. Lab assistants:

  • Will perform only those tasks directed by the student;
  • Are used as a tool, not a teacher or tutor;
  • Will not prompt or guide a student in performing a lab task;
  • Will not explain nor interpret lab assignments/questions.

Lab Assistant Qualifications

  • Good academic standing with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher;
  • Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality of the student;
  • Ability to express verbally what is seen in a descriptive manner;
  • Effective communication skills;
  • Responsible, professional and dependable;
  • Respectful of different learning styles;
  • Ability to follow multi-step directions;
  • Previous experience in and knowledge of the subject area preferred but not required.

Discussion Assistant

A discussion assistant is a student hired by the CSD who assists with various tasks and procedures within a discussion course (e.g., providing verbal descriptions of images, retrieve supplies or equipment, etc.).  Discussion assistants are required to complete any training required by the faculty prior to participating in the discussion.  The provision of a discussion assistant is not considered a substitute for a student’s full participation in each discussion.  Discussion assistants:

  • Will perform only those tasks directed by the student;
  • Are used as a tool, not a teacher or tutor;
  • Will not prompt or guide a student in performing a discussion task;
  • Will not explain nor interpret assignments/questions.

Discussion Assistant Qualifications

  • Good academic standing with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher;
  • Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality of the student;
  • Ability to express verbally what is seen in a descriptive manner;
  • Effective communication skills;
  • Responsible, professional and dependable;
  • Respectful of different learning styles;
  • Ability to follow multi-step directions;
  • Previous experience in and knowledge of the subject area preferred but not required.

Students are responsible for notifying the CSD if any concerns arise regarding an assistant’s performance.