An Analysis of the Establishment and Evolution of the Disability Resource Center Structure Through Qualitative Inquiry: A Case Analysis From the Rehabilitation Specialists’ Perspective

Abstract

This study offers a comprehensive understanding of the establishment and progression of a disability resource center (DRC) at a prominent U.S. university. Employing a qualitative, phenomenological approach, it focuses on the insights of the DRC’s director, assistant directors, and rehabilitation (ability) specialists. The phenomenological approach ensures an in-depth understanding of the DRC’s developmental nuances, challenges, and successes, providing valuable insights for enhancing development of a disability center in higher-education institutions. Data collection was completed with semi-structured interviews planned with the director, assistant directors, and six DRC ability specialists. A content analysis method was used to analyze the data. Findings cover themes such as the DRC’s mission, legal regulations, organizational structure of the DRC, service delivery model, and historical development and provide a deep understanding of how disability services are structured and delivered in higher education. The results are discussed in the light of the literature.