Faculty attitudes and knowledge regarding college students with disabilities

Abstract

The presence of students with disabilities (SWD) at colleges and universities in the United States has increased significantly in recent years, yet many of these students continue to encounter significant barriers that can have a profound impact on their college experience. Salient factors that contribute to the challenging climate for SWD include lack of faculty knowledge and awareness of the issues that face these students, as well as negative attitudes toward disability and the provision of accommodations. The current study examined faculty attitudes and knowledge regarding SWD via an online, anonymous survey (n = 123). Results suggest that although faculty have generally positive attitudes toward SWD, they are more likely to hold negative attitudes toward students with mental health disabilities and learning disabilities than toward students with physical disabilities. This study also identified several misconceptions and gaps in knowledge about offices of disability services and provision of accommodations that could negatively impact students. Faculty respondents also expressed strong interest in professional development opportunities related to SWD. Implications of these findings and future directions are also addressed.