Faculty Decision Making and Timing of Disability Accommodation Request

• In Event: AERA Research in Progress Roundtable Session Five
  In Invited Roundtable: Research-in-Progress RT013 (Sunday)

Abstract

This study investigates faculty decision-making and timing in responding to disability accommodation requests in higher education. Despite legal protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act, students with disabilities (SWD) often face delays or denials in receiving accommodations, influenced by faculty perceptions of academic integrity, workload, and inclusion. Using Disability Critical Theory (DisCrit), the research explores how faculty rank, discipline, and response timing affect accommodation approval and student success. A quantitative methodology will analyze data from disability services across three campuses. Anticipated findings may reveal that early-semester approvals correlate with higher course pass rates, while delayed responses hinder success. The study aims to inform policy changes, improve faculty collaboration, and enhance equity and access for SWD in academic environments.

Author

• Alexandria Cordon, California State University - Long Beach