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Experiences of disabled students in online education: a systematic review

Lynch, Sinead orcid logoORCID: 0009-0001-1983-1782, Brunton, James orcid logoORCID: 0000-0001-7223-0524 and Farrell, Orna orcid logoORCID: 0000-0001-9519-2380 (2025) Experiences of disabled students in online education: a systematic review. Distance Education . ISSN 0158-7919

Abstract
A mixed-methods systematic review of the academic and psychosocial experiences and requirements of disabled students in online higher education was conducted to understand what is known and identify potential areas for improvement. Five databases were searched for full-text, peer-reviewed journal articles published in English between 2017 and 2023, focusing on students enrolled in dedicated online education courses in higher education. Preliminary searches resulted in 1229 studies, of which 14 were extracted for thematic synthesis. Five themes were found: (1) The importance of staff-student relationships; (2) Flexibility makes it easier; (3) Challenges related to disability; (4) A need for adaptable support services; (5) Isolation and stigma in peer relationships. Findings showed that while the flexibility of studying online offers an additional access route into higher education for disabled students, gaps in academic support and adaptable accommodations add additional barriers, while fear of stigma from peers creates feelings of loneliness and exclusion.
Metadata
Item Type:Article (Published)
Refereed:Yes
Uncontrolled Keywords:Accessibility; disabled students; higher education; inclusion; online learning; students with disabilities
Subjects:Social Sciences > Distance education
DCU Faculties and Centres:DCU Faculties and Schools > Institute of Education
DCU Faculties and Schools > Institute of Education > School of Policy & Practice
Publisher:Routledge/Taylor & Francis
Official URL:https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01587...
Copyright Information:Authors
ID Code:31643
Deposited On:20 Oct 2025 14:12 by Sinead Lynch . Last Modified 20 Oct 2025 14:12
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