ERIC Number: EJ1434801
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2379-7762
EISSN: EISSN-2328-3343
Transition and Accommodation Experiences of Students with Disabilities: A Qualitative Study
Jeanette M. Parsons; Mary Ann McColl; Andrea Martin; David Reynard
Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability, v36 n2 p179-192 2023
Although more students with disabilities are attending university than ever before, many still have difficulties with the transition from high school. Transition research has extensively examined the factors and barriers that support or hinder successful transitions for students with disabilities. However, there has been little explicit focus on the "intersection" of experiences with transition and academic accommodations on the overall experience of students with disabilities at university. This study interviewed six participants with various disabilities who transitioned directly from high school to university. Thematic analysis showed that: (a) first-year students are unprepared for the bureaucratic nature of the accommodation process, but ultimately find it fair and non-stigmatizing; (b) first-year students discover that they have to play a more active role in their accommodation planning but ultimately find that this role, and the accommodations they receive, positively supports their autonomy and disability identity at university; and (c) some university instructors exhibit significantly negative attitudes towards students requiring accommodations. These findings have practice implications for disability service professionals in universities supporting the transition needs of students with disabilities.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, High School Graduates, Post High School Guidance, Students with Disabilities, Accessibility (for Disabled), Assistive Technology, Transitional Programs, College Freshmen, Attitudes toward Disabilities, Student College Relationship, Student Experience, Student Attitudes
Association on Higher Education and Disability. 8015 West Kenton Circle Suite 230, Huntersville, NC 28078. Tel: 704-947-7779; Fax: 704-948-7779; e-mail: JPED@ahead.org; Web site: https://www.ahead.org/professional-resources/publications/jped
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: High Schools; Secondary Education; Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Canada
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A