Diagnostic assessment
(including bilingual assessment) is available at the Aptos and
Watsonville campuses.
How do I get a diagnostic assessment?
The first step is to call our main office (479-6220)
to schedule a group intake/orientation. During the orientation you
will learn more about learning disabilities and determine if you
should continue with the individual assessment.
Do I have to pay?
Yes, but not much. The cost of testing is the
cost of enrolling in a one unit class
at Cabrillo College.
Do I have to take a class?
Yes. You must be a Cabrillo college student to
be tested, and you will need to enroll in LS
254, Diagnostic Assessment. You will receive an add slip to
register at the group intake/orientation mentioned above.
Upon completion of the individualized testing process, you will
receive one unit of credit.
Is there homework?
Yes, a little bit. You will receive a short
assignment which is based on the Learning
Differently Handbook. It consists of seven questions and a
chart to fill out. One of the questions also asks you to watch
a short video called
A Matter of Perception. You can check the video out at
the circulation desk in the main library. The assignment should
be finished by the time you receive your results. You can also print the homework
questions and chart.
How long does the testing take?
Testing time varies depending on your schedule.
Appointments are made individually and last from 1 - 1 1/2 hours.
Students generally have four to five testing appointments and one
appointment to obtain your results. Occasionally, additional testing
appointments are necessary.
What are my responsibilities?
- After the group intake/orientation register for
LS 254
- Attend all testing appointments. Call us if you
can't attend, so we can reschedule your appointment. If you miss
two appointments without calling, you may be dropped from further
testing.
- Purchase Learning
Differently: A Handbook for Students with Learning Disabilities,
or download it from this website. The book costs $5.00 and you
can buy it in the college bookstore. You can also read the book
in the main library, available for reference at the circulation
desk.
- Watch the video, A Matter of Perception
(You can check the video out at the circulation deske for viewing
in the main library.)
- Complete the assignment based on the Learning
Differently Handbook.
What if I have been tested
already ?
If your testing records are less than three years old and fall within
the California Community College guidelines, you probably don't
need testing. If your records are older than that or incomplete,
you will need to be retested to bring your records up to date.
When can I get services?
You can receive services as soon as our office
receives documentation confirming your learning disability. This
means that you must finish testing or have records of previous testing,
perhaps in high school or at another college, or through a private
psychologist.
Can I transfer my records to
another school?
Yes. Just let us know and sign a release form,
and we'll send your records. Most colleges in California have similar
programs and give similar tests, but eligibility requirements vary
outside the California Community College system. Eligibility at
another college is likely but not guaranteed.
What services can I get?
Since individual test results vary, so do services.
For example, some students may be eligible for note takers, while
others may not. Not everyone is granted extended time on exams,
because not everyone needs extended time. Here are some of the services
provided:
- Tutorial services (tutors)
- Test accommodations (extended time on tests, alternative
test locations, etc.)
- Note takers (students who take notes in class and
give out copies)
- Priority registration (Learning Skills students
register before other Cabillo students.)
- Assistive technology (special programs
to help with reading and writing)
- Books on CD (allow 6-8 weeks)
- Assistance with class schedules
- Individual education plans
