FACTORS AFFECTING THE PERCEPTION OF DIFFERENTLY ABLED STUDENTS TOWARDS HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS- AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS IN KERALA

Abstract

The current study explores the factors affecting the perception of differently-abled students towards higher educational institutions in Kerala, India. The motivation behind this research stems from the growing need to understand the challenges faced by differently-abled students in the context of higher education. Despite various initiatives for inclusion, the experience of these students in academic settings often remains under-researched. To fill this gap, we focused on three regions of Kerala-Palakkad (Central Zone), Ernakulam (Central Zone), and Thiruvananthapuram (North Zone) where 220 samples were collected to understand their perceptions. Using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) analysis, five key factors were identified: access to facilities, support services, social acceptance, faculty and staff attitudes, and peer awareness. The findings reveal that social acceptance had the most significant positive impact on students’ perceptions (0.56), followed by faculty and staff attitudes. These results emphasize the importance of creating an inclusive environment in higher education institutions. The study suggests that enhancing social integration, improving faculty training, and ensuring campus accessibility are essential steps in fostering a more inclusive atmosphere. Policy implications include the need for targeted interventions that promote social awareness, improve faculty competencies in inclusive education, and ensure physical and academic accommodations for differently-abled students. By addressing these factors, higher education institutions can significantly improve the overall experience and perception of differently-abled students.