Training program to support tertiary students with disability

A free online program is now available for disability workers, on the best approach to supporting tertiary students with disability.

Developed by the National Disability Coordination Officer Program and the Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training, the one-hour program focuses on the roles and responsibilities of workers who are externally employed, paid or unpaid, by individuals and organisations, to provide support to students with disability in tertiary settings.

It gives participants an increased understanding of their role and responsibilities and a better knowledge of contemporary practices and approaches in supporting students with disability in the tertiary setting.

SCORM file versions of the program will be available soon for organisations to embed into their Learning Management System.

The website is designed to be accessible to everyone and includes alternate versions of the courses to assist screen reader users to navigate the quizzes. Enrollment is necessary only in the version of the course that meets individual needs.

The four modules must be completed in successive order with each module ending with a short quiz to demonstrate understanding. The e-learning program can be completed at an individual pace and need not be completed in one sitting, allowing users to log out and log back in at any time. The entire course takes an average 45–60 minutes to complete. At the successful completion of all components, participants will be eligible to download a certificate of achievement.

Building understanding and confidence when working with students with disability in tertiary education is an essential element to supporting inclusion. How to communicate, interact and respond to their needs can positively influence their experience and educational outcomes.

Assistance that builds independence, not only increases the quality of the student’s tertiary education and training experience but also provides transferable skills for future employment.

For more information visit the Disability Awareness website.