Disabled Students at the Palestinian Universities: Birzeit University as a Model

Abstract


 Universities vary in the logistic support they provide for the disabled students. At the same time, universities can be a model for the bigger society in the way they undertake and involve this category. In this study, we tried to explore how do students of disabilities perceive their university life at Birzeit University. This will definitely reflect their relationship to their wider society. We also tried to identify the various challenges face the disabled students during their university life.
 Participants own narratives were used to collect data in focused groups. Data from interviews was transcribed and analyzed following the qualitative approach of content analysis. Results indicated that the disabled students at Birzeit University are trying to live as independent students. They believe that their daily experiences are very similar to other students’ experiences at the university. This perception helps them to construct a positive sense of self, which, in turn, encourage them to overcome the social burdens upon them. In conclusion, the interviewees believed that their disabilities are not what identify them as students. Regarding their relationship to the society, the disabled students struggle to change the stereotype that the society stigmatizes them with as incapable and helpless. The results indicated also that the disabled students are distinguished by having the ‘desire ‘which is their main motif to achieve their dreams and to challenge the existing stereotyping about them. They do not give up; they have a strong will and determination to achieve their goals.
 The study recommended increasing the financial and learning support for disabled students and raising the awareness about their potentials among Birzeit University students.