The experiences of young people with vision impairment making the transition into Higher Education

Hewett, Rachel Graca (2020). The experiences of young people with vision impairment making the transition into Higher Education. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis is concerned about the transition experience and inclusion of vision impaired students in Higher Education (HE) in the UK. It takes a holistic perspective by investigating how well supported students were into HE, how inclusive the environment was when they got there, and how prepared they were for studying independently in a HE environment.

The thesis draws upon a longitudinal qualitative study into the post-16 transition experiences of young people with vision impairment, and focuses the analysis upon a series of semi-structured interviews and case study work with 39 participants, who applied for a broad range of courses at institutions across England, Scotland and Wales.

Applying Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Model of Human Development as a lens through which to interpret the findings, the thesis offers two new conceptual models. The first model, the Bioecological Model of Inclusive Higher Education, offers a framework through which to interpret the interaction of different factors on the learner’s experience, which includes the learner’s development over time. The second model the Balanced Model of support proposes a balanced strategy for inclusive access to HE through examining an appropriate balance of inclusive practice, individual adjustments, individual agency, and how this might be facilitated through progressive mutual accommodations.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):