Students with disability are choosing
to undertake postgraduate study in increasing numbers. However, they
still face significant barriers, including supervisors' lack of
awareness of disability-related issues, and problems completing their
course or research project in the specified timeframe.
Postgraduate policies, practices and procedures should offer students with disabilities the same opportunities as their peers. They need everything that other students do:
- Clear information about course requirements, including any practical or fieldwork components
- Support to adapt their personal and learning styles to meet new demandsAdvice about learning and support options
- In addition, they may require accommodations to meet their particular needs, and clear information about their rights and responsibilities.
Supervisors may find it useful to meet early with prospective candidates to plan any accommodations and discuss the implications of their disability for study.
Supervisors are occasionally confronted by concerning student behaviour. There are a number of possible responses; however, if the behaviour is disruptive, it may be useful to meet with the student to discuss a behaviour agreement.