Facilitators and barriers of students with disabilities in their higher education processes: Istanbul University sample

This study aims to identify the barriers and facilitators of students with disabilities in higher education processes, based on their personal experiences. Using the qualitative research design and case study approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 students with disabilites continuing their education in Istanbul University formal education programs in the 2018/2019 academic year. The collected data were analyzed by descriptive analysis method. In the descriptive analysis, the contextual components of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) Framework were used. As a result of descriptive analysis, findings were collected under 6 major themes that are in line with ICF Framework: 1) Products and Technology, 2) Natural Environment and Man-Made Changes in the Environment, 3) Support and Relationships, 4) Attitudes, 5) Services, Systems and Policies, and 6) Personal Factors. According to the results of the study, it was determined that the physical structure of the campus, the inadequacy of the services provided, including the transition to higher education, and the inadequacies in the implementation of the services, the negative attitudes of the lecturers, and not using assistive technologies in education practices prevents students' equal access and full participation in education. Whereas, it has been observed that the academic and social support of the Disability Support Units, physical arrangements in the campus, supportive social relations, positive attitudes of the lecturers have been positively reflected in the students' higher education processes.