University education and students' perceptions of physical disabilities at Kuwait University

Alanoud M Alrashidi, Purdue University

Abstract

The purpose of this Mixed Methods Study was to examine the experiences of students with physical disabilities at Kuwait University from educational and cultural perspectives. In the first quantitative phase, the study involved collecting survey data from a number of students with physical disabilities at Kuwait University (N = 53). The quantitative phase aimed to identify the attitudes of students with physical disabilities at Kuwait University toward support services, campus accessibility, and their adaption to disability. In the second qualitative phase, a smaller sample (n = 7) of students with disabilities was purposefully selected to participate in follow-up in-depth interviews. The purposes of the qualitative phase were to: (1) expand the analysis of students' responses in phase one; and (2) examine the influence of gender, as an element of the Kuwaiti culture, in the perception of disability. The findings of the study showed that students with physical disabilities at Kuwait University have negative attitudes toward support services and campus accessibility. However, students with physical disabilities were found to be highly adapted to their disabilities. Female students with disabilities were found to be more constrained in terms of their education, marital choices, future and travel options. Further discussions and implications for future studies are included.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Rud, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Special education|Middle Eastern Studies|Higher education

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