Rising to the challenge : Maltese students with disability in tertiary education

Abstract

There is currently an increasing awareness of the need to promote self-advocacy among persons with disabilities, as well as their inclusion in regular education. This study is an attempt to contribute to existing literature about the issue of inclusion by providing an indication of helpful and hindering practices in our education system as perceived by students with disabilities themselves. A qualitative case study design was adopted. Data was obtained through semi-structured interviews with five Maltese persons with disabilities who are still undergoing or have undergone university courses. The interviews provided a retrospective account of these persons' educational experiences from kindergarten to tertiary level. A qualitative analysis of the data confirmed the importance of inclusive practices for persons with disabilities themselves and for society in general. An important finding was the need to use a holistic approach in supporting the education of persons with disabilities. People's attitudes were a major hindrance to the education and growth of persons with disabilities in Malta. All persons interviewed experienced a struggle for inclusion in mainstream education. Success was highly dependent on supportive networks and social contacts. Schooling was found to be a major source for long-lasting peer friendships, an escape route to prolong not having to face the reality of the market, as well as a means to arrive at a job suitable for the individual with a disability. In each case the family was the main-stay for the development of the person with a disability, with a high investment of energy and resources in their son or daughter. The findings suggest that the current interest in the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the home, school and community setting, should continue to develop directed at ensuring that persons with disabilities themselves are given a voice for their personal development and the development of a society that truly respects human dignity.