Disability Awareness Training

Student and Academic Services Division

Introduction

Students with disabilities are a rapidly growing minority at all tertiary institutions in New Zealand. Although almost 20 per cent of the New Zealand population has disabilities or impairments with long-term consequences, it is estimated that presently no more than 5 per cent of the student population has a disability. This small, but significant group is growing steadily, as educators, students and the community become more aware of the options available to people with disabilities.

The obligation to accommodate students with disabilities extends beyond the moral responsibility and beyond the universities' commitment to fulfil the promise of access.

As part of this commitment we have developed the following interactive resource to help staff, students and members of the community to enhance their knowledge and understanding of disability issues. To start the interactive training package, please complete the initial Disability awareness test

Additionally you may wish to download the staff training manual (1MB PDF or 557KB non-graphics word version) PDF or Word . Although the guide is directed toward teaching and classroom practice, administrative and other staff will find the information and strategies that are included of benefit in improving their interaction and communication with people with disabilities. This manual provides basic information to promote understanding of disability issues and encourage staff to create a non-disabling learning environment.

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Page Content: Marg Dobson