Accessibility Scan of Carroll College

Abstract

Research done in a national study in 2011 found that only 34 percent of college students with disabilities will complete a 4 year program (NLTS2: Home, n.d.). This is due to numerous issues with accessibility on college campuses. While many colleges support students with physical disabilities, many do so from the standpoint of legal compliance instead of bettering campus and classroom accessibility. Student researchers were concerned about Carroll College's accessibility for people with physical disabilities. They wanted to see how accessible Carroll is, especially from the standpoint of someone who uses a mobility aid. Student researchers conducted interviews, focus groups, and environmental scans, in order to gather results. Interviews showed that Carroll students and faculty thought that prospective students with a preexisting physical disability would not feel comfortable joining the Carroll community due to a lack of accessibility. Environmental scans revealed that even though there are accessible entrances to buildings, they are not realistic for long term or daily use. In Guadalupe Hall specifically, the only way to get to the accessible bathroom on the men’s side is to exit the building, re-enter through the Wellness Center door, take the elevator to the first floor, and use the bathroom by the computer lab. There are no accessible bathrooms for the women’s floors. This research will be used to inform Carroll on ways that campus can be made more accessible, therefore further embodying the mission of “welcoming all persons” as per the mission statement.