The learning experience of students with disabilities in Higher Education.A case study of a UK University

This paper summarises the results of an investigation into the social and l earning experiences of students with disabilities in a UK University. The s tudents' experiences were evaluated in three broad areas: with respect to t he categories used by the Higher Education Council to examine the quality o f the learning experience for all students in higher education; against the issues conventionally included in studies and policy developments for inde pendent living for people with disabilities; and in relation to the impact coming to university has on the lives of students with disabilities. The pa per highlights the issues of central concern to students with disabilities in the University and draws some conclusions with policy implications from a discussion of student perception of services, the practical constraints f acing the institution, and the social values which underpin the framework o f support for students with disabilities in Higher Education in England and Wales.