Studying online with special needs: A student perspective

As diversity is increasing in higher education, the number of students with disabilities (SWD) grows. In parallel, technological development and online education change the conditions for teaching and learning. Previous research indicates that the digitalisation provides both challenges and opportunities for equal participation. This study explores the experiences of SWD in online higher education, using the Communities of Inquiry model as a theoretical framework. A questionnaire with 6256 students (430 SWD) examines the differences and similarities between SWD and other students in online courses. The results show that SWD are a heterogeneous group with diverse needs and preferences, and that online education can offer both advantages and disadvantages for them. The main advantages are using technology to compensate for disabilities, enabling more equal participation, and the flexibility and convenience of online courses. The main challenges are difficulties in planning and self-regulation, decreased motivation and increased stress, perceived uncertainties about examination requirements and proceedings and the unfulfilled need for interactive environments and feedback. The importance of faculty–student relationships is highlighted, and the significance of clarity and accessibility, feedback and interaction and flexibility and variation in creating inclusive online courses is emphasised. Implications for policy and practice are suggested.