Presentation Schedule
Creating Global Citizens in Communities Through University Partnership: Enabling Independence Among Adults with Disabilities. (106746)
Session Chair: Diana Damilatis-Kull
Wednesday, 17 June 2026 13:45
Session: Session 2
Room: Room 108 (1F)
Presentation Type:Oral Presentation
Individuals with disabilities frequently experience a shift in their lives as soon as they graduate from high school. Many of these individuals transition into segregated programs and environments after exiting high school, resulting in significantly fewer opportunities for meaningful inclusion than those available during their K–12 education. This session presents findings from a university-based pilot study in the United States that examined an inclusive, community-engaged instructional model within a teacher preparation program. The model invited adults with disabilities living in community settings and group homes to participate as guest speakers in college classrooms, sharing their lived experiences with preservice teachers. Using a qualitative case study design, data were collected through pre- and post-surveys administered to college students, along with interviews and classroom observations involving both college students and individuals with disabilities. Findings indicated reciprocal learning outcomes for both groups. Preservice teachers demonstrated increased awareness of inclusive practices, disability advocacy, and community-based supports, while individuals with disabilities reported enhanced feelings of social inclusion, agency, and belonging within their local communities. The partnership challenged deficit-based perceptions of disability and highlighted the role of higher education as a site for authentic inclusion beyond traditional service-learning models. This session will highlight Implications for teacher education, inclusive pedagogy, and the benefits of community university partnerships. The study underscores the potential for adults with disabilities to be recognized as contributors and global citizens who actively participate in the educational, social, and civic life of their communities. Opportunities for scholarly dialogue and audience discussion will be incorporated.
Authors:
Pavan Antony, Adelphi University, United States
Linda Plourde, Bay Berry Inc, United States
About the Presenter(s)
Professor Pavan Antony is a University Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer at Adelphi University in United States
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