Inclusion at university : can we do more than open the door

• Published in: Journal of social inclusion Vol. 2; no. 2; pp. 19 - 33
• Main Author: John O'Rourke
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Griffith University 09.11.2011
• Subjects: Academic staff; Case studies; Developmental disabilities; Edith Cowan University; Inclusive education; Intellectual disability; Postsecondary education; Social inclusion; Special needs students; Student experience; Universities; University students; University teaching; Australia; Perth (WA); Western Australia
• ISSN: 1836-8808; 1836-8808
• DOI: 10.36251/josi.31

The inclusion of students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in university settings is an emerging policy initiative. Different models have evolved to support the inclusion of students with IDD in university settings from full inclusion to specialised separate programs. This article reports the process of creating a program of inclusion for Belle, a student with IDD at Edith Cowan University in Western Australia. Based on extensive field notes and interviews with the included student and her mentors, the author assesses the pilot study using a case study approach and reflects on what might be required by university staff to enhance inclusive practice for these students. The benefits from a social and educational point of view were evident. However, the inclusion of Belle was a time and resource hungry exercise; much planning went into both organising her participation and sustaining her place within the class. With experience and improved structures these factors could be better managed, but a detailed consideration of time costs would be necessary before embarking on a more formal program. [Author abstract, ed]