Within higher education, disability services offices are tasked with the facilitation of accommodations for disabled students to ensure equal access to education. This focus is essential for aligning with the legal mandates of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
However, having access is often insufficient for actually achieving equitable outcomes for students.
This reality comes at a time when disability services are more stretched than ever, experiencing increased budget pressures and an ongoing demand to do more with less, even as the volume of students seeking support rises.
In this light, there is a case to be made for a paradigm shift; a shift across disability services from a focus on student access to a focus on student success.
Moving beyond access
The current model of disability services often operates within a compliance driven framework.
The emphasis on access, and ticking boxes, can unintentionally restrict the scope of services to ensuring students meet minimum requirements for participation.
This approach overlooks the broader goal of enabling students with disabilities to thrive academically and achieve their full potential.
While accommodations are essential, they don’t necessarily guarantee academic success for students with disabilities. Factors such as self-advocacy skills, social support, and a sense of belonging play a significant role in student success.
Therefore, looking beyond providing a baseline, and investing in long term success rather than regulatory compliance, can have long term benefits on student success and institutional prosperity.
The power of a success first approach
A success driven approach moves beyond a transactional model of service delivery and centers instead on the student's holistic development.
It recognizes that students with disabilities have diverse needs and aspirations, and that success encompasses more than just academic achievement.
By prioritizing success, disability services can empower students to actively participate in their learning, develop self-advocacy skills, and build resilience in the face of challenges.
Key components of a success driven model
Early and proactive engagement: Establishing connections with students early in their academic journey can help identify potential barriers to success and provide timely support.
Proactive outreach initiatives can ensure that students are aware of available resources and feel comfortable seeking assistance.
Personalized support plans: Tailoring support plans to the individual needs and goals of each student can enhance their sense of agency and motivation.
These plans should include academic accommodations, as well as strategies for developing self-advocacy skills, accessing campus resources, and building social connections.
Strength based approaches: Focusing on students' strengths and abilities can foster a sense of confidence and self-efficacy.
By recognizing and celebrating their accomplishments, disability services can encourage students to strive for even greater success.
Collaboration and partnerships: Building strong partnerships with faculty, academic advisors, and other campus stakeholders can create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for students with disabilities.
Collaboration can lead to innovative solutions and promote a shared responsibility for student success.
Data driven decision making: Utilizing data to track student outcomes and assess the effectiveness of programs and services can guide continuous improvement efforts.
Evidence-based practices can ensure that resources are allocated effectively and that interventions are aligned with student needs.
The benefits of a success over access approach
A success, rather than access, approach to disability services has the potential to yield numerous benefits for students, institutions, and society as a whole.
By empowering students with disabilities to achieve their full potential, we can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable higher education system. Some of the key benefits include:
- Improved student outcomes: Increased retention rates, graduation rates, and overall academic achievement.
- Enhanced student wellbeing: Increased self-esteem, self-efficacy, and sense of belonging.
- Strengthened campus community: A more inclusive and supportive environment for all students, especially those among the missing 65% or new majority demographics.
- Increased institutional reputation: Recognition as a leader in providing high-quality disability services.
- Increased departmental reputation: Acknowledgement that the disability services office has played a foundational role in maximising positive student outcomes.
- Positive societal impact: A more diverse and skilled workforce.
Refreshing your approach
By adopting a more rounded approach that centers on the student's individual needs and aspirations, institutions can empower students with disabilities to thrive in higher education and beyond.
The shift from access to success requires a commitment to early engagement, personalized support, strength-based approaches, collaboration, and data-driven decision-making.
By investing in the success of students with disabilities, we can create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
