International Initiative
International partnership and collaboration help us to share ideas and meet our commitment to facilitate full participation of people with disabilities in higher education. AHEAD is proud of our accomplishment within the United States and Canada. However, we are interested in expanding our partnerships with colleagues more globally. With this in mind, in 2009, the International Initiative was launched by President Mike Shuttic. Collecting information about constituent needs is an early priority of the Initiative. Our initial survey, which was launched in Japan thanks to emerging interests among members, is detailed below.
If you would like more information about the Initiative or would like to participate, please contact the Initiative members listed below!
Members of International Initiative
Chair: Roxana Stupp
University of Illinois at Chicago
Email: rstupp@uic.edu
Member: Mika Watanabe-Taylor
University of Montana
Email: mika.watanabe-taylor@umontana.edu
Ex Officio: Mike Shuttic
President of AHEAD
Email: m.shuttic@okstate.edu
AHEAD International Initiative launched a survey with Japanese constituents
In March of 2009, the AHEAD International Initiative conducted an online survey amongst identified individuals in higher education and related agencies in Japan. The purpose of this survey was to assess their knowledge and views of AHEAD, and current compelling issues related to disability and higher education in their country. The survey also aimed to help AHEAD determine how to best meet these expectations.
Eighty seven individuals participated in this survey. The following are the key findings:
- The three AHEAD membership benefits that respondents currently most appreciate are: (1) internet resources, (2) information and referrals, and (3) journal subscriptions.
- Language (lack of English language skills) can be a barrier. However, this concern was raised by a small number of respondents (16%).
- AHEAD membership dues seem to be too high to join.
- Timely information on issues regarding disabilities in higher education is most valuable.
- Compelling issues identified in this survey seem to be applicable to DS providers in the US and Canada, where a majority of AHEAD members currently reside; this suggests that these topics are common issues which AHEAD members and Japanese constituents can all share. Examples of issues include exemplary practices to promote full participation of individuals with disabilities, transition from secondary education to higher education, transition from higher education to the work place, faculty/staff training, governmental relations, collaboration, and partnership.
Link to the complete survey summary in English
Link to the complete survey summary in Japanese
Questions and comments on the survey can be directed to Mika Watanabe-Taylor at mika.watanabe-taylor@umontana.edu.
