A Qualitative Study of Ableism on the Postsecondary Campus

• In Event: Sunday Roundtable 9:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: (Re)conceptualizing Inclusive Higher Education Through Student Experiences and Perspectives (Table 21)

Abstract

The qualitative research gave voice to nine disabled undergraduate students on the postsecondary campus. In their own words, we hear their lives, successes, failures, the most enjoyable aspects of campus life, and the least pleasant aspects of the campus environment. Nine interviews with disabled students took place on Zoom. The interviews were transcribed, and the transcriptions were analyzed with the assistance of MAXQDA software. The study discerned that conflicts with instructors significantly hindered their academic success. The research project also learned that resolving disputes with instructors was extremely difficult. Disability cultural centers provide a positive, inclusive space for disabled students. The disabled students felt comfortable in the cultural center environment.

Author

• George Stuart Fuller, Daniel Jonathan Fuller Memorial Fund