What is a Memory Aid?
A memory aid is an accommodation for students whose disability results in deficits in the retrieval of information from long-term memory or in the sequencing of information. Embedded in every test question are language-based cues for retrieval of the required information. Some students require an alternative method of effectively accessing previously learned information.
Usually, a memory aid consists of one sheet of paper and can include acronyms, pictures, diagrams or mind maps.
A proper memory aid allows the student to demonstrate knowledge of course material by helping to trigger the student’s memory and therefore won’t be useful if the student doesn’t understand the course material.
Role of the Student
- The student is responsible for creating a memory aid. They can work with a learning strategist if they need help. The student can contact Accessible Learning Services (ALS) to book an appointment with a learning strategist.
- The student is responsible for submitting the memory aid to the professor for approval.
- It is suggested that memory aids be submitted a week in advance to give the professor enough time to review.
- Only materials approved by the professor will be allowed into the test areas.
- The memory aid and the test will be provided by the professor.
Role of the Faculty
- The professor is responsible for approving a memory aid in advance of the test.
- The professor is responsible for delivering both the test and the approved memory aid to the Assessment Centre.
A Memory Aid Can...
- Be handwritten or typed
- Include diagrams, mind maps, general formulas, acronyms or pictures
- Make sense to the person who created it, as well as experts
- Include only information that cannot be remembered (i.e., effectively retrieved from memory without a visual cue).
A Memory Aid Cannot...
- Include specific examples of how formulas are used
- Include complete terms and definitions
- Include information that directly answers test questions
- Be created to replace studying
Examples of Memory Aids
Pictures and Images
Represents: economic growth
Sketches/Cartoons
Represents: gender equality
Formula
Represents: F=mg (Force=mass times acceleration)
Acronyms
HOMES
Represents: The Great Lakes (Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie and Superior).
Abbreviations
qty = quantity
# = number
Mnemonics
Never Eat Shredded Wheat
Represents: North, East, South and West
MEMORY AID ACCOMMODATION AND CREATION PROCESS
Once a memory aid accommodation is approved by an accessibility consultant and added to a student’s accommodation plan, follow the steps below to access memory aid sheets on tests/exams:
The student emails their Professors early in the semester to discuss their Memory Aid accommodation and the content areas each professor will allow based on each test’s learning outcomes.
Sample Email Template
Hello (insert professor’s name),
My name is (insert name and student number). I am in your (insert course name). I am a student receiving accommodations from Accessible Learning Services and my Accommodation Plan includes the use of a Memory Aid for tests.
To create these cues, I would like to understand the content areas that will be allowed based on the learning outcomes. My plan is to create the memory aid sheet and submit it to you 7 days prior to the test. Your direction in the content areas and type of memory cues allowed (e.g. acronyms, images, etc.) will help me maintain academic integrity and ensure that it is created in consultation with you.
If you would like to discuss this further, please let me know.
Thank you,
(insert name and student number)
- The student identifies and summarizes material throughout the course for possible use on their memory aid sheet. If the student needs support in developing a memory aid that meets these guidelines, they may book an appointment with a learning strategist at Accessible Learning Services.
- Submission of memory aid sheet for professor approval at least seven days prior to test
- The student compiles their memory cues on one sheet and emails their completed Memory Aid Sheet to their professor for signed approval at least seven days prior to their test or as negotiated with their professor in Step 1.
- For handwritten sheets, students can take a photo with their smartphone or scan the document before emailing it to their professor.
- If the professor indicates that changes are required to maintain the academic integrity of the test, the student will make the changes and resend by email for approval by the professor.
- The professor will email the student confirming the final copy of the memory aid to be accessed on the test.
- For in-person tests, the professor will submit the approved memory aid with the student’s test.
One week prior to the test, the student books their test with the Assessment Centre and reminds the professor of their test accommodations, e.g., extra time and ensures their memory aid has been approved.
If the test is online through the learning management system (LMS), the professor will extend the student’s test time, where appropriate, and advise the student of any other test instructions and/or policies.
Additional Support
Students and faculty can connect with Accessible Learning Services to discuss the implementation of this accommodation. Please contact the Accessibility Consultant listed in the student’s accommodation plan.
