Documentation Guidelines - ADD

Definition: According to the DSM-IIIR and DSM-IV, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD) is a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity or impulsivity that is more frequent and severe than is typically observed among individuals at a comparable level of development. The DSM-IV delineates three types, including the type primarily characterized by inattention, the type primarily characterized by hyperactivity-impulsivity, or the “combined type,” in which symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity are present.

Documention: An assessment for Attention Deficit Disorder should be current (preferably within the last three years) and should include the following:

1. A list of the questionnaires, interviews, and observations used to identify the ADD behaviors. A summary of this information should include information    regarding the onset, longevity, and severity of the symptoms.
2. A complete psycho-educational evaluation, including a cognitive assessment with a report of raw data and the interpretation of this data.
3. Information concerning the impact of the ADD on the educational setting, including functional limitations.
4. Medication history and current recommendations regarding medication.
5. The exact DSM-IV diagnosis.
6. A list of appropriate accommodations.
7. Information concerning comorbidity.

Diagnostician: The diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder should be made by a professional such as a psychiatrist, educational psychologist, neurologist, or a combination of such professionals who have expertise in diagnosing ADD in adults, and who have expertise in diagnosing other psychiatric disorders which might resemble symptoms of ADD. In addition, it is important that the diagnostician be able to screen for learning disabilities.

Students with disabilities who are requesting support services from Learning Services must provide documentation of the disability and the need for services requested. Documentation cannot be more than three years old. Students are responsible for all costs involved in obtaining updated documentation.

This documentation, along with a signed release, becomes a part of the student’s confidential file at Learning Services and does not become part of the student’s permanent academic record.

Student Athlete Information (transition program and study hall info)

In compliance with NCAA regulations, Learning Serv-ices provides academic guidance and study skills training to student athletes including academic performance tracking, indi-vidual study skills instruc-tion, peer tutoring, and study hall availability.

Studying begins with an atmosphere conducive to learning. Our daily study hall sessions, available to all students of the Mount Community, are a good starting point. Study halls are conducted by graduate assistants and reputable upper class students, who help students improve their overall study habits. Specially trained Peer Tutors are also available upon request.