Resources from the Service Centre for Students with Disabilities

The Service Centre for Students with Disabilities at Paderborn University is committed to making everyday life on campus easier and creating an inclusive study environment. It offers a wide range of aids that are individually tailored to the needs of students.

On this page you will find a comprehensive overview of all the aids available to you. We invite you to find out more about what is on offer and to contact us if you have any questions or would like personal advice. Your well-being and your academic success are important to us!

Cur­rent pool of aids

Height-ad­justable tables

There are now height-adjustable desks in several student work areas (learning centre, foyer Q0, notebook café, IMT media editing room, pool room N5). These are particularly practical for wheelchair users, but can be adjusted to the right height for everyone and also allow you to work standing up - e.g. if you have back pain.

Wedge cush­ion

Wedge cushions are particularly useful for people with back problems and for anyone who wants to promote an ergonomic sitting posture. They relieve pressure on the spine, support an upright position and help to prevent back pain. The wedge cushions are available in the SmB.

Noise-can­cel­ling head­phones

Noise-cancelling headphones are ideal for students studying or working in noisy university environments. They reduce distracting background noise and provide an undisturbed listening experience. These headphones are available in the SmB so that you can concentrate better at all times.

Or­tho­paed­ic pil­lows

Orthopaedic cushions are perfect for students who want to promote an ergonomic sitting posture while studying or in lectures. They provide support for the neck and back and help to relieve tension. These cushions are available in the SmB so that you can sit comfortably at all times.

Elec­tron­ic door open­ers

People in wheelchairs or with disabilities who have difficulty opening the main entrance doors can receive a transponder that opens the electronic doors. This is not only available to wheelchair users, but to all those affected. If required, please contact the building management.

Facility management

Study­ing with a hear­ing impair­ment

Some of the lecture halls (buildings L, O, G and Audimax) are equipped with loop amplifiers. Mobile microphone and hearing systems are available, some of which are compatible with hearing aids.

Study­ing with visu­al impair­ment

The University helps the visually impaired with the use of a screen reader. The reader is available in the Media Service Center (room: H1.201) of the ZIM (Center for Information and Media Technologies) of the University. The screen reader supports you during exams and when reading your homework assignments.

Dic­ta­tion soft­ware

Licences for the professional dictation software Dragon are available to enable faster text production based on the spoken word.

Mi­cro­phone com­bin­a­tions

Mobile microphone combinations can be borrowed to compensate for unfavourable acoustics or seminar situations.

...you need some­thing else?

Then make an appointment with us to talk about it!

Ap­ply for study as­sist­ance

In many cases, it is essential to have a personal assistant, a study helper, either temporarily or for the entire duration of your studies to support you in your everyday study life and take on all kinds of tasks that you cannot manage yourself. A study assistant may be required both at the university and at home.

Examples of a study assistant could be

  • Accompanying person for students with mobility restrictions
  • Writing assistance for events and at home with motor impairments
  • Reader and companion for students with visual impairments
  • (Sign language) interpreter for hearing impairments

As a rule, you will endeavour to find a suitable assistant yourself, with whom you will work together on a permanent and familiar basis if possible. Study assistants, such as a friend who is studying with you or fellow students you meet during your studies, can either be hired personally or found through certain social organisations, depending on the type of help you need. These institutions are particularly helpful if you need assistance for a longer period of time.

We will be happy to support you with questions about study assistance and, if necessary, put you in touch with other counselling centres.

Con­tact per­son for ques­tions or ap­ply­ing for aids

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Kathrin Weber

Advice for students with disabilities

Representative for students with disabilities or chronic illnesses

Write email +49 5251 60-5498
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