Educational inclusion of students with disabilities in public universities in Central America and the Caribbean. Perspectives of different professionals

Abstract

This article presents a study on the educational inclusion of students with disabilities who regularly attend public universities in Central American and the Caribbean. This study is part of a broader project that seeks to generate support for this group in Higher Education. A qualitative approach with an exploratory descriptive design was used. Ten academic heads, coordinators, members of university instances of attention to students with disabilities, and professors participated. The results show that most educational institutions have implemented institutional policies in recent years. Likewise, student assistance programs represent one of the major support mechanisms. Finally, the participants mentioned that the lack of economic resources, scarcity of trained personnel, and teacher training on this issue are the main obstacles to creating inclusive educational environments.

Access to Education; Caribbean; Central America; Higher Education; Educational Policy