Supporting Disabled Students in Higher Education: The Reasonable Adjustments Handbook

The guide provides practical advice and guidance on making reasonable adjustments for disabled students in higher education to ensure their inclusion and success. It draws on best practice from across the sector and uses real-case studies to offer specific adjustments that can be applied to a range of situations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 138 pages
Publication date: 20 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Drawing on the best practices from across the higher education sector, this comprehensive guide aims to ensure the inclusive participation of disabled students in higher education. It delves into the crucial topic of what constitutes a reasonable adjustment and what should not, providing valuable insights for educators and administrators. Through the use of real-life case studies that focus on specific disabilities, the guide offers practical and tailored adjustments suggestions that can be applied to a wide range of higher education situations. By embracing inclusivity and adaptability, higher education institutions can create an environment that supports and empowers disabled students to thrive academically and personally.

Introduction:
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of ensuring the inclusive participation of disabled students in higher education. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) emphasizes the right of individuals with disabilities to education, and many countries have adopted laws and policies to promote this goal. However, despite these efforts, disabled students still face significant barriers to accessing and participating fully in higher education.
What Should Be Considered a Reasonable Adjustment?:
A reasonable adjustment is any modification or adjustment that is made to accommodate a disabled student's needs so that they can fully participate in higher education. This may include adjustments to teaching methods, learning materials, assessment procedures, and physical facilities. It is important to note that not all adjustments are reasonable, and institutions must carefully consider the impact of any adjustments on the overall learning environment and the rights of other students.
What Should Not Be Considered a Reasonable Adjustment?:
Some adjustments may not be considered reasonable because they place an undue burden on the institution or other students. For example, providing a wheelchair for a student who can walk without assistance may not be a reasonable adjustment if it requires significant resources or disrupts the learning environment for other students. Similarly, making changes to academic requirements or deadlines to accommodate a student's disability may not be appropriate if it compromises the standards of the program or the learning outcomes of other students.
Real-Life Case Studies:
To provide practical and tailored adjustments suggestions, this guide uses real-life case studies that focus on specific disabilities. These case studies provide insights into the challenges faced by disabled students and the adjustments that have been successful in supporting their participation in higher education. By examining these case studies, educators and administrators can gain a better understanding of the adjustments that are most effective in different situations.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this comprehensive guide aims to ensure the inclusive participation of disabled students in higher education. By drawing on the best practices from across the sector, it provides valuable insights into what constitutes a reasonable adjustment and what should not. Through the use of real-life case studies, it offers practical and tailored adjustments suggestions that can be applied to a wide range of higher education situations. By embracing inclusivity and adaptability, higher education institutions can create an environment that supports and empowers disabled students to thrive academically and personally.

Weight: 230g
Dimension: 156 x 235 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032122922