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Accessibility and disability inclusion among top-funded U.S. Undergraduate Institutions
oleh: Jessica Campanile, Caroline Cerilli, Varshini Varadaraj, Fiona Sweeney, Jared Smith, Jiafeng Zhu, Gayane Yenokyan, Bonnielin K. Swenor
Format: | Article |
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Diterbitkan: | Public Library of Science (PLoS) 2022-01-01 |
Deskripsi
<h4>Background</h4> There is limited data to assess, track, or quantify accessibility and disability inclusion across universities. <h4>Objective</h4> This cross-sectional study assessed disability inclusion and accessibility at the top 50 National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded undergraduate programs in the United States. We hypothesized that there is no association between NIH funding and the University Disability Inclusion Score. <h4>Methods</h4> A novel tool, the University Disability Inclusion Score assessed disability inclusion and accessibility using 10 indicators spanning 4 categories: (1) accessibility of built and virtual environment, (2) public image of disability inclusion, (3) accommodations processes and procedures, and (4) grievance policy. Based upon the total points (out of a total score of 100), each university was assigned a letter grade (A-F). <h4>Results</h4> Of the top 50 NIH-funded institutions, 6% received an A grade on the Score, while 60% received D or F. The mean scores were 15.2 (SD = 5) for accessibility of built and virtual environment (20 points), 10 (SD = 3) for public image of disability inclusion (20 points), 30.6 (SD = 10) for accommodations processes and procedures (50 points), and 8.1 (SD = 3) for grievance policy (10 points). <h4>Conclusions</h4> Our findings suggest room for improvement in disability inclusion and accessibility among top university recipients of NIH funding. To provide an equitable academic experience, universities must prioritize disability inclusion.