Challenges and Solutions in Teaching and Learning for Students with Disabilities in Higher Education Institutions
Total Views: 113 | Total Downloads: 66
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33102/jqss.vol8no2.225Keywords:
Disability, Awareness, Accessibilities, Challenge, Equal Rights, OpportunitiesAbstract
Raising public awareness about People with Disabilities (PWD) requires addressing
accessibility challenges within the educational systems of higher education institutions (HEIs).
Advocacy efforts and ensuring equal opportunities for PWD demand serious attention. This study
examines the role of academic staff, focusing on fostering an understanding of the needs of PWD
within HEIs using a qualitative approach through in-depth interviews. Five participants were
selected, including academic faculty who work closely with PWD students and PWD students
from various disability categories, such as visual and auditory impairments. The findings indicate
that the ability of academic staff in HEIs is perceived as limited due to insufficient knowledge
of teaching practices. Additionally, the lack of necessary resources and support for PWD students
poses significant challenges for academic staff. Consequently, the study explores the challenges and
responsibilities of educators in incorporating specialized education into higher education. Addressing
these challenges is crucial in strengthening intervention efforts and promoting inclusive discussions
aimed at raising awareness of PWD issues in society.
References
Abdul Rahim Hamdan, Ahmad Johari Sihes, Jamaluddin Ramli & Musa Ismail. (2006). Tahap Minat, Pengetahuan dan Kemahiran, Latihan Guru dan Beban Tugas Guru Program Pemulihan Khas Sekolah Kebangsaan Daerah Pontian, Johor. Annual Conference on Teacher Education.
Akta Orang Kurang Upaya.2008. (Akta 685). Kuala Lumpur: Percetakan Nasional Berhad.
Allen, R., & Bowles, T. (2019). The Impact of Personalized Academic Advising on the Success of Students with Disabilities. Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability, 32(1), 15-29.
Anderson, J., & Loynes, C. (1987). Knowledge and readiness of lecturers to work with persons with disabilities: A study in Pennsylvania. Journal of Special Education Research, 8(3), 45-60.
Arman Abd Sani. (2020).Penyesuaian dalam Kalangan Siswa Guru Orang Kurang Upaya (OKU) Penglihatan di Sebuah Institut Pendidikan Guru. Jurnal Penyelidikan TEMPAWAN Jilid XXXVII,105-112.
Baker, L., & Ray, M. (2019). The Role of Educators in Motivating Students with Disabilities: Creating Positive Learning Environments. Journal of Inclusive Education, 27(1), 45-60.
Black, L. J., & Field, R. (2019). Flexible Attendance Policies for Students with Disabilities: Implications for Academic Success. Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability, 32(2), 189-204.
Carrasquilla, A. (2022). The challenges of inclusive education: Insufficient training and strategies among teachers. Journal of Inclusive Education Studies, 15(2), 85-98.
Clark, J., & MacGillivray, L. (2019). Enhancing understanding and retention through multiple communication channels: Implications for inclusive teaching practices. Journal of Inclusive Education Practices, 6(1), 28-41.
Connelly, L. M., & Milligan, F. J. (2019). Peer Support for Students with Disabilities: Enhancing Academic and Social Success. Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability, 32(3), 245-258.
Daruwalla, P., & Darcy, S. (2020). The Impact of Stigma on the Academic Engagement and Well-being of Students with Disabilities. Disability & Society, 35(6), 823-840.
Dobbins, N., Higgins, K., Pierce, T., Tandy, R.D. & Tincani, M. (2009). An Analysis of Social Skills Instruction Provided in Teacher Education and In-Service Training Programs for General and Special Educators. Remedial and Special Education 2009.
Emira, M., & Brewster, S. (2021). Enhancing the learning experience of students with hearing impairments: The role of sign language interpreters, real-time captioning, and hearing assistive technologies. Journal of Educational Technology and Disability, 19(2), 105-120.
Foster, S., & Cue, K. (2020). Sign Language Training for University Lecturers: Enhancing Communication with Deaf Students. Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education, 25(2), 123-137.
Frith, U. (1991). Asperger and his syndrome. Autism and Asperger Syndrome,1-36. doi:10.1017/cbo9780511526770.001
Green, C. E., & Tilly, S. M. (2022). Customized Curricular Adjustments for Students with Disabilities: Enhancing Academic Outcomes. Journal of Higher Education Policy and Management, 44(2), 145-160.
Hasnah Toran, Mohd Hanafi Mohd Yasin, Mohd Mokhtar Tahar & Norasuzaini Sujak. (2009). Sokongan dan Halangan yang dihadapi Pelajar-Pelajar Kurang Upaya di Institusi Pengajian Tinggi di Malaysia. Asean Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 1(2), 18-29.
Hasnah Toran, Tajul Arifin Muhamad, Mohd Hanafi Mohd Yasin, Mohd Mokhtar Tahar & Nur Hazwani Hamzah. 2011. Pengetahuan dan Sikap Rakan Sebaya terhadap Pelajar Kurang Upaya di sebuah IPTA di Malaysia. ASEAN Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education Vol. 2, No.2, 22-34
Hazlin Falina Rosli, Wan Amizah Wan Mahmud & Maizatul Haizan Mahbob. (2015) Realiti dan Kesamarataan Hak Orang Kelainan Upaya (OKU) di Malaysia. Kertas Kerja Seminar Mention 2015, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 5 & 6 Oktober.
Hurst, A. (1996) Reflecting on researching disability and higher education, dalam: L. Barton (Pnyt.) Disability and Society: emerging issues and insights (pp. 123– 143). London: Longman.
Hussain, S., Iqbal, M. Z., & Murtaza, G. (2020). Challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Pakistan: Attitudinal problems, lack of access to facilities, and untrained teaching staff. Journal of Educational Research and Practice, 10(1), 123-134.
Johnson, P. R., & Lee, J. A. (2020). The Impact of Accessible Transportation on the Academic Success of Students with Disabilities. Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability, 33(3), 285-299.
Jones, M. P., & Gibbons, W. E. (2020). Vocational Training Programs for Students with Disabilities: Bridging the Gap to Employment. Journal of Vocational Education and Training, 72(3), 287-303.
Kementerian Pengajian Tinggi (KPT). (2021). Kenyataan Media. Retrieved June 3, 2021. https://www.mohe.gov.my/hebahan/kenyataan-media/peluang-melanjutkan-pengajian-kepada-pelajar-oku-bagi-pemohon-lepasan-spm-untuk-kemasukan-ke-ipta-dan-ilka-sesi-akademik-2021-2022?highlight=WyJva3UiXQ==
Khuzwayo, L., & Chivhanga, E. (2022). Training Programs for Disability Inclusion in Higher Education: Changing Attitudes and Promoting Empathy. Journal of Inclusive Education, 27(1), 33-45.
Lee, S. H., & Kim, J. H. (2019). Re-assessment Opportunities and Instructional Support for Students with Disabilities. Journal of Educational Research and Practice, 39(1), 22-37.
Lei, Q. (2007). EFL teachers‟ factors and students‟ affect. US-China Education Review, 4(3), 60-67. doi:10.2307/1170741
Lombardi, A., Vukovic, B., & Sala-Bars, I. (2020). Disability Awareness and Inclusive Practices in Higher Education: Addressing Gaps in Educator Training. Journal of Inclusive Education, 14(3), 234-250.
Martin, J. (2003). Kebimbangan Ibu Bapa yang Mempunyai Anak Cerebral Palsi. Tesis Sarjana Pendidikan. Fakulti Pendidikan, Bangi: Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.
Mbuvha, T. (2019). Essential support services for students with disabilities: The role of the Disability Unit at the University of Venda. Journal of Disability Studies, 14(3), 112-125.
McHatton, P. A., & Parker, A. (2013). Enhancing the Preparation of Teacher Educators: An Assessment of the Role of Professional Development Schools and Special Education. Teacher Education and Special Education, 36(3), 217-231.
McNaughton, D., & Light, J. (2022). Inclusive Practices in Higher Education: A Review of Current Research and Best Practices. Journal of Inclusive Education, 26(1), 15-32.
Miele, J., & Jenkins, R. (2022). Ensuring accessibility in higher education: Providing alternative formats for students with visual impairments. Educational Accessibility Journal, 15(2), 45-57.
Mohamad Esa, Ezlina; Ismail, Alice Sabrina (2020) Analisis Kemudahan Prasarana Pelajar Orang Kurang Upaya di Kolej Komuniti, Journal of Social Science Advanced Research, v. 1, n. 2, p. 61-75.
Noran Fauziah Yaakub, Fatimah Haron, & Ahmad Jazimin Jusoh (2009). Manual Guru: Pencegahan Buli di Sekolah. Kuala Lumpur: Utusan Publication and Distributors Sdn Bhd.
Norasmah Othman dan Rofilah Md. Said (2013). Tahap Kesediaan Guru Sekolah Menengah Harian Mengamalkan Kepimpinan Tersebar. Jurnal Teknologi (Social Sciences). 64:1, hlm 93–100. Dimuat turun daripada http://www.jurnalteknologi. utm.my
Okon, E., & Lawal, A. (2020). Overcoming communication barriers in inclusive education: Strategies for effective engagement with students with disabilities. International Journal of Inclusive Education, 24(4), 367-380.
Pelan Tindakan Orang Kurang Upaya (PTOKU) 2016-2022. Retrieved June 30, 2021. https://www.jkm.gov.my/jkm/uploads/files/JPOKU/PelanTindakan_OKU(EMAIL).pdf
Pratt, C & Stewart, R. (2002). Teaching Students Who Are Low-Functioning: Who Are They and What Should We Teach? BBB Autism Support Network. The Indian Resource Center for Autism.
Raja Nur Fakhriah Raja Zainal Badri & Aizan Sofia Amin. (2018). Isu dan Cabaran Pelajar Kurang Upaya Penglihatan di Institusi Pengajian Tinggi. Jurnal Psikologi Malaysia 32 (3), 131-145.
Rao, M. V. L., & Flores, M. A. (2015). Inclusive Education: Challenges and Prospects. International Journal of Educational Research, 71, 31-39.
Rao, P. S., & Torres, M. J. (2020). Extended Examination Time and Location Adjustments: Impact on Students with Disabilities. Journal of Inclusive Education, 27(4), 373-390.
Rivas Almaguer, L., Martínez López, M., & García Pérez, A. (2022). Developing a psycho-pedagogical training methodology for teachers to enhance accessibility in higher education for students with disabilities. Journal of Higher Education Accessibility Studies, 10(1), 45-60.
Rose, D. H., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching Every Student in the Digital Age: Universal Design for Learning. Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.
Samsudin A. R. (2002). Media dan Identiti Budaya Ke Arah Membangkitkan Budaya Tahan. Jurnal Komunikasi. 17, 67-80.
Scheuermann, B., Webber, J., Boutot, A., & Goodwin, M. (2003). Problems with personnel preparation in autism spectrum disorders. Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, 18(3), 197-206.
Scott, S. S., McGuire, J. M., & Shaw, S. F. (2003). Universal Design for Instruction: A Framework for Anticipating and Responding to Disability and Other Diverse Learning Needs in the College Classroom. Equity & Excellence in Education, 36(1), 40-49.
Seale, J., Georgeson, J., Mamas, C., & Swain, J. (2021). Understanding Disability and the Role of Academic Staff in Higher Education. Studies in Higher Education, 46(1), 84-97.
Smith, K., & Brown, L. (2021). Government Financial Support for Students with Disabilities: Scholarships and Allowances. Journal of Disability Policy Studies, 31(4), 289-304.
Supiah Saad. (2006). Komitmen dan Peranan Guru dalam Pelaksanaan Pendekatan Pendidikan Inklusif di Malaysia. Seminar Penyelidikan Pendidikan. Maktab Perguruan Batu Lintang, Sarawak.
Thompson, S. A., & Dickey, L. M. (2020). Building Personal Connections in Higher Education: Strategies for Supporting Students with Disabilities. Journal of Inclusive Education, 24(2), 159-175.
Walker, H. M., & Test, D. W. (2022). Emotional Support and Active Listening: Key Strategies for Supporting Students with Disabilities. Journal of Educational Research and Practice, 39(1), 22-37.
Wan Sabri Wan Husin, M. Z. (2013). "Model Pembangunan Institusi Pendidikan al-Quran bagi Anak Istimewa". The 3rd Annual International Quranic Conference. Kuala Lumpur: Centre of Quranic Research (CQR), Universiti Malaya.
Wendt, R., & Mason, L. (2023). Enhancing academic outcomes through accessible instructional design: The impact of accessibility audits and faculty training. Journal of Inclusive Education Strategies, 18(2), 101-115.
WHO. (2020). 10 Facts on disability. Retrieved June 3, 2021, from World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/news-room/facts-in-pictures/detail/disabilities.
Williams, C. A., & Garcia, M. (2022). Peer-Led Initiatives for Enhancing Social Integration of Students with Disabilities. Journal of Higher Education and Disability Studies, 40(2), 85-97.
Williams, R. J., & Mayer, D. M. (2021). Simplifying Assessment Language: Strategies for Supporting Students with Cognitive and Learning Disabilities. Journal of Special Education Technology, 36(2), 123-137.
World Institute on Disability. (2005). Treating Adult with Physical Disabilities: Access and Communication, A Training Curriculum for Medical Professionals on Improving the Quality of Care for People with Disabilities. Oakland,USA: Center for Health Care Strategies, Kaiser Permanente Foundation, California Health Care Foundation.
World Vision International. (2007). Written Statement Prepared for the 4th Session of the Human Rights Council: Geneva. March 2007.
Zabeli, N., & Gërguri, E. (2021). Raising Disability Awareness in Higher Education: The Role of Campus Campaigns. Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability, 34(2), 159-175.
Zhang, Y., & Wang, S. (2021). Community Engagement Programs: Bridging the Gap Between Students with Disabilities and the Workforce. Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education, 33(4), 267-281.
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
Copyright (c) 2024 Hazlin Falina Rosli, Safura Ahmad Sabri, Nur Fikhriah Takril
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
All articles are published by USIM Press. If the article is accepted for publication, the copyright of this article will be vested to author(s) and granted the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) license, unless otherwise stated. Anyone may reproduce, distribute, translate and create derivative works of this article (for both commercial and non-commercial purposes), subject to full attribution to the original publication and authors. The full terms of this licence may be seen at http://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode