Student Strategies (Week 4 - Activity 1.1)

Time Pressures

• Having to double check arrangements
• Researching available assistive technologies
• Planning accessible routes around campus
• Finding alternative temporary support while waiting for long term solutions to be arranged
• Waiting for course materials in alternative formats

Flexibility

• Alternative assessment arrangements (extra time, separate rooms, breaks etc.)
• Alternative emergency procedures (vibrate/flashing light alarms, assembly points)
• Working from home rather than on campus

Family Support

• Getting used to independant living
• Being able to make contact with friends and family (phone lines, internet connection)
• Proof reading / reading aloud

Experiences Common to All Students


I identified the following experiences that would be common to many students starting higher education. Depending on the individual these experiences may be more pronounced for disabled students.

• Feeling nervous, venerable and homesick.
• Tiredness and lack of sleep / trouble sleeping in new surroundings.
• Culture Shock.
• Meeting and dealing with new people.
• Feeling confused about what they should be doing, where they should be and what is expected of them.
• Becoming independent.

Unresolved Challenges

• Delays in allocation of Disabled Student Allowance (DSA), or delays in the delivery of DSA funded equipment.
• Mobility issues that cannot be resolved due to listed buildings etc.

Good Practice

• Institutions making anticipatory decisions when producing materials
• Institutions making arrangements in advance of the arrival of disabled students
• Institutions accommodating alternative learning methods/activities

Other Issues

• Choosing accessible courses/modules
• Ensuring access to suitable local healthcare for medical treatment