ERIC Number: ED326028
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1989-Dec
Pages: 8
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: ISBN-1-85338-179-9
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Access to Higher Education: Students with Disabilities at the Open University. Working Together?
Child, Derek
Services to students with disabilities at the Open University (OU) in Great Britain are described. This large distance teaching institution offers courses in multi-media form, using printed texts, audio and video material, radio and television programs, microcomputer software, and tutorial support (available either from local study centers or at 13 regional centers). Access for students with disabilities is facilitated through such services as preparatory courses to develop study skills for students with visual and hearing impairments, taped materials, identification of special needs in computer use, arrangements for home examinations, and assessment of individual functional requirements. These services are supported by an information and resource network with specialist organizations and through links to national and regional governmental and government-funded agencies. Experiences of two students with severe physical disabilities are described. Suggestions for the future include: a pilot project to encourage other higher education institutions to facilitate access to the OU system; early planning and preparation of students; equipping students to use new assistive technology; and providing opportunities for students to review their situation and choose other options if desired. (BRM)
Descriptors: Access to Education, Adolescents, Adults, Assistive Devices (for Disabled), Audiovisual Aids, College Students, Disabilities, Distance Education, Educational Media, Educational Technology, Foreign Countries, Hearing Impairments, Information Networks, Nontraditional Education, Normalization (Handicapped), Open Universities, Physical Disabilities, Postsecondary Education, Special Programs, Visual Impairments
Publication Type: Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: Further Education Curriculum Review and Development Unit, London (England).
Identifiers - Location: United Kingdom
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A