Assistive technology enables inclusion in higher education: The role of Higher and Further Education Disability Services Association.

Marcia Lyner-Cleophas

doi:10.4102/ajod.v8i0.558

Abstract

BackgroundUsing assistive technology is one way to foster inclusion of students in the post-school education and training (PSET) sector.ObjectivesHigher and Further Education Disability Services Association (HEDSA) enables the sharing of new knowledge about assistive technologies through its symposia, and making information available on its website. Additionally, it facilitates dialogue and collaboration amongst institutions in the PSET network using a listserv and newsletters, given that PSET institutions are spread countrywide.MethodThis is an article based on a presentation at the 5th African Network of Evidence-to-Action in Disability (AfriNEAD) conference in Ghana in 2017 that focused on the value of assistive technology for students pursuing studies in the PSET sector and the role played by HEDSA in South Africa.ResultsThe positive gains and existing gaps in disability inclusion in the higher education sector in South Africa are highlighted, with reference to access to technology. All higher education institutions have internet access and can thereby make use of listservs to communicate information. MapAbility is a way that prospective students can gain a snapshot view of available resources at institutions of learning, using the internet.ConclusionAn association such as HEDSA plays a critical role in the PSET sector to enhance disability inclusion using online tools to disseminate information.

Highlights

South Africa is in the process of healing from sustained exclusion and discrimination, segregation, colonisation, racism and many other social inequalities and injustices that have become ingrained in its society
Higher and Further Education Disability Services Association was established in October 2006 and is a community of practice for members of HEDSA who work in the post-school education and training (PSET) sector, primarily in disability support services
Social justice cannot be achieved without the inclusion of all people, including people with disabilities, in educational settings

Summary

Objectives

Higher and Further Education Disability Services Association (HEDSA) enables the sharing of new knowledge about assistive technologies through its symposia, and making information available on its website. It facilitates dialogue and collaboration amongst institutions in the PSET network using a listserv and newsletters, given that PSET institutions are spread countrywide. Method: This is an article based on a presentation at the 5th African Network of Evidence-toAction in Disability (AfriNEAD) conference in Ghana in 2017 that focused on the value of assistive technology for students pursuing studies in the PSET sector and the role played by HEDSA in South Africa

Results

Conclusion

Introduction

Ethical considerations