Students with Disabilities: Health Sciences Placement Project
During 2007 & 2008 the University of South Australia undertook a collaborative project sponsored by the Disability Service and Health Sciences Division to investigate issues impacting on the clinical placement experience of Health Sciences students with disabilities. The project involved investigation of issues through review of relevant literature, consultation with external stakeholders and staff and students at the University. The Project culminated in the development of web based resources for staff supporting students and the mapping of a clearer process within the University for attending to student support needs. The project recommends the University undertake further significant work in clarifying the inherent or core requirements of it's programs. This work is needed to frame the provision of reasonable adjustments as outlined in the Disability Standards for Education (2005)
This paper maps the progress of this project, the input from stakeholders and details the key project outcomes. The paper will support Universities in managing the complex and often competing issues involved in supporting students with disabilities in placement settings.