An investigation into the educational experience of students wtih a learning difficulty in a college of further education

Abstract

This paper considers the educational experience of 3 students with a learning difficulty who attend a College of Further Education. Using a participatory methodology interviews are carried out and opinions elicited regarding current and previous experiences of college and school. It is contended that the experience of the students will initially have been constructed in an exclusive educational system where the individual/medical model of disability remains dominant. Key issues are the management of the move from a small special school to a large college environment and the difficulties involved in ensuring the involvement of the students in 'integrated activities. It is acknowledged that whilst inclusion in the educational system is a long term aim it may still be possible to work towards improving the quality of the educational experience of students with a learning difficulty in a college environment by involving all the students at the college in suggesting and working towards increasing integrational opportunities.