Teaching for Inclusion: Using Transformative Learning to Change Attitudes Toward People With Disabilities in Higher Education

Abstract

The social model views disability as diversity rather than tragedy, making disability studies a transformative experience in higher education. This study examines the impact of the course “Persons with Disabilities in the Circle of Life,” taught at an Israeli academic college, on students’ attitudes. Using the Multidimensional Attitudes Scale (Findler et al., 2007), 206 students were surveyed at the start and end of the course. Results showed significant improvements in affective and behavioral attitudes toward people with disabilities. These findings underscore the value of transformative learning in disability studies for fostering positive attitudes and promoting inclusion in educational settings.

Keywords

higher education attitudes transformative learning disability studies inclusion

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