Starting Point 9: Audio, Video, and Photo Recording

Students may need audio/video/photo recording as an accommodation in the classroom or during activities like meetings or practicum settings. Many programs require that students receive prior permission before recording class activities.

Students will also need to discuss their accommodation with each of their instructors and determine the following:

when recording may be useful,
when recording may not be useful,
when recording is permitted, and
when recording is not permitted for anyone.

If recording is not permitted, it's important that the student work with their instructor to ensure that a suitable alternative is available.

Classroom recording requires an agreement with Accessibility Services

For accessibility accommodation purposes, recording classroom content does require that a student has registered with Accessibility Services and has completed a video and audio note-taking agreement. Standard text in all course outlines includes information about students requiring academic accommodations and the need to register with Accessibility Services.

If the student requires recording as an accommodation, they must complete a recording agreement that identifies parameters around the proper use of recordings. They can find and download this recording agreement (pdf version).

Copyright and privacy concerns

Recording in class requires discretion and planning because of copyright and privacy issues. It is important that the student complete the agreement above and discuss with their instructor when to record and when not to record.

It is also essential to note that any recordings the student makes in class are for their use and accommodations only. They should not share them with others.

Recording in other situations

Students needing to record in the classroom might require similar accommodations during polytechnic-related activities outside the classroom.

For recording during a meeting (with a tutor or advisor, for instance), students don't need a special agreement; it is up to the student and the other meeting participants to discuss and agree.

Potential audio, video, and photo recordings during practicum placements or work-integrated learning opportunities are subject to practicum organization policy and procedures (and require the organization's agreement) and Lethbridge Polytechnic policy and procedures. For this reason, permission is required from practicum or work-integrated learning supervisors or instructors before students can record in these contexts.