3rd level education is a relatively new opportunity for people with intellectual disability. The development of 3rd-level opportunities for this population rests on understanding their experiences and suggestions for programme development and improvement. This study aimed to establish how inclusive 3rd level education is experienced by people with intellectual disability. A scoping review using Arksey and O’Malley2005) framework was conducted of peer-reviewed literature published between 2002 to 2023 that reported empirical research on the experience of inclusive 3rd level education by people with intellectual disability. People with intellectual disabilities are engaging in 3rd level education courses within University Campuses. They consider such programmes as opportunities to meet aspirations and to enable independent living especially through employment. The experience is influenced by supportive staff, initiatives, and challenges. From the literature suggestions on how programmes could be improved were identified. People with intellectual disability value and embrace the opportunities to engage in 3rd level education. The experience is a mix of positive personal outcomes and challenges. Future research is needed to examine effective approaches to overcoming challenges and finding ways to develop programmes that meet the needs of adults with intellectual disability.

Authors:
Therese Hennessy, University of Limerick, Ireland
Jennifer McMahon, Mary Immaculate College, Ireland
Owen Doody, University of Limerick, Ireland

About the Presenter(s)
Therese Hennessy is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Limerick, Ireland. Since qualifying as a registered psychiatric nurse, she has worked in both clinical practice and nurse education.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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