Managing a learning disability at the post-secondary level : a qualitative study

Burke, Gladys Mary (2001) Managing a learning disability at the post-secondary level : a qualitative study. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Students living with learning disabilities often face a host of problems that complicate the school environment for them. Given the academic concerns of such students and their high risk for dropping out of school, this study set out to determine how post-secondary students manage their disabilities. The study utilized a qualitative research methodology of conducting open-ended, semi-structured interviews with six learning-disabled students attending a post-secondary institution. Noteworthy themes included: self-awareness, public awareness, self-advocacy, support from significant others, support from faculty members, support from the Center for Students with Disabilities, hard work and determination, and ability to take control. Students articulated the struggles they encountered throughout their school lives but they now feel stronger for having had to struggle. At the post-secondary level, they continue to struggle and to feel misunderstood. They feel that people pejoratively categorize them as learning disabled rather than accepting them as people with distinct learning needs.

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