An Organizational Study:  Moving AHEAD Through the Social Model of Disability and Universal Design for Learning

 

Abstract
Rose Kreston, Colorado State University

The purpose of this study is to explore and examine an initiative of the Association of Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) to promote two concepts:  the social model of disability (SMD) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL).  Both of these ideas have the potential to enhance the access, inclusion and consideration of disability as a normal human characteristic within higher education.  Under the framework of institutionalization, this study will explore the purpose (the ‘why’) and the process (the ‘how’) of the dissemination of these concepts.  Institutionalization is a process by which an organization changes as innovations (e.g., ideas, technology, practices, etc.) become ‘taken-for-granted’ as standard operational procedures. 

Analysis will include an examination of the benefits of the initiative as well as the challenges to full institutionalization.  The results have the potential to inform present and future AHEAD members of the purpose of the initiative and the benefits of incorporating these concepts into their everyday work as DSS professionals.  In addition, identifying possible obstacles to implementation will allow members to be more cognizant of the potential challenges, a step critical to the process of full institutionalization.  

As a qualitative research study, participants will be selected from the current AHEAD membership who were/are instrumental in the creation of the initiative and/or in actively promoting the concepts within their respective institutions.  Participants will be identified through personal contacts as well as through past conference programs that indicate individuals who presented on their involvement in the promotion of SDM/UDL.  Interviews will take place within 12 months once IRB approval has been given.

This research study will result in a dissertation in fulfillment of the Ph.D. requirements in Sociology and future publication for the Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability and other research publications.