Inclusive Laboratory Experiences: Is Science at York Accessible?

Description

This project is aimed at reducing inequities for students with disabilities in laboratories across York University starting with the Faculty of Science. A sizable percentage of Faculty of Science students are registered with student accessibility services and have accommodations in their courses; however, most recommendations are related to lectures and not laboratories).

Our project goal is to set the groundwork, and ultimately a framework, for creating more accessible experiential laboratory experiences through a UDL lens, such that all students can engage in positive laboratory. By doing so, this project directly contributes to embedding success and equitable, inclusive practices in science programs and supports access to experiential education opportunities. We will improve accessibility by investigating access needs of students, potential barriers—both practices and equipment—currently present in our teaching laboratories, and solutions from the literature and York instructors, and consulting with disability.