Inclusion of Learning Disabled Student’s in Higher Education – Faculty Attitude and Perception

Abstract

The human rights approach towards the Learning disabled was initiated by the organization of disabled people from most of the countries across the globe. Various policies and legislationswere enacted at the international level to support education for students with disabilities. The Education policy of UAE emphasizes great importance for students with special needs, but surprisingly educational institutions are still not well equipped to support and meet their educational needs. This study investigates the faculty awareness, their perceptions and the practices toward LD students. The research also extends its study to understand the resources and policies available with the leading Universities in Abu Dhabi and Alain. A five point scale focused to measure faculty member’s level of perception, available supportive services, their belief in accommodating LD Students and initiatives taken was designed. Chi-Square test was used to find the test mean difference between two groups, and greater than two groups. The results of this study will help to propose suggestions to create a supportive environment for students with learning disabilities at universities across UAE. It should also be noted that a supportive environment is inevitable to meet the growing educational needs of students with learning disability and their future progress.