Abstract:
The aim of this research study was to investigate the inclusion of students
with disabilities studying in Turkish universities. Students with visual difficulty
were selected as a case from 24 different universities. A survey with seven
dimensions was administered to 73 students, and 12 students were interviewed. Survey and interview findings revealed both progress and, to a larger
extent, dissatisfaction with (i) the physical and psychosocial environment of
universities; (ii) the way diversity and disability were viewed; (iii) the way
support was planned and delivered; (iv) the level and quality of communication and collaboration; (v) the teaching and learning processes; and (vi) the
way higher education policy was made and implemented. Findings highlight
the need for prioritizing university cultures that are inclusive of students with
diverse backgrounds and translation of the inclusiveness into effective practice of providing pedagogical and material support to these students.