MELA Minutes 2023-2024

technology was also considered, with concerns raised about the difficulty of proving such behavior without singling out individuals. The group acknowledged that the use of advanced assistive technologies, such as Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids, posed challenges in maintaining academic integrity while ensuring equal opportunities for students with disabilities. The group also discussed the difficulty of differentiating between students with disabilities and non-disabled students in cases of academic dishonesty during virtually proctored exams. Following the discussion, it was noted that a director of ADA at a university had not encountered any reported issues related to students with hearing disabilities using such technology. The group also raised the point that students with disabilities are required to self-report and that individuals who wear hearing aids or glasses may be less likely to do so. The meeting concluded with the group acknowledging the complexities of the issue and the need for further exploration and consideration of potential implications for academic integrity and the rights of students with disabilities. C. Discuss disclosure letters so that we are all on the same page (NW). 1. The discussion was initiated by a member who had sent out an email with several questions regarding the frequency of sending out disclosure letters. The member expressed a need for clarity on how often the letters should be sent out, particularly considering recent changes. The group engaged in a discussion about the need for a standardized template for the disclosure letters to ensure consistency across the board. It was suggested that a template would allow for the easy insertion of student names and program details. The conversation then shifted to the topic of student location and the need to track changes in student location to comply with federal regulations. The group discussed the importance of having a process in place to track student location and the need to publicize this process to ensure compliance. The group also