Muna Mohamed Alhammadi
Zayed University, United Arab EmiratesPresentation Title:
Availability of disability specialists for individuals with vision and/or hearing impairments in the UAE: Current status and future needs
Abstract
This study aims to identify the disability specialists needed for students with vision and hearing impairments in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and to investigate the university-level training courses available for these professionals. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research includes both qualitative and quantitative components. Qualitatively, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 employees from ten organizations in the UAE that provide support services for students with vision and hearing impairments. The quantitative aspect involved analyzing disability-related programs offered at UAE universities from 2018 to 2020.
The interview findings revealed specific needs for students with vision impairments, who primarily require teachers of the visually impaired, braille trainers, orientation and mobility specialists, and assistive technology experts. Conversely, students with hearing impairments typically need educators for the deaf or hard of hearing, speech therapists, and sign language specialists. The study results also indicate that both UAE higher educational institutions and specialized disability organizations do not play an active role in preparing the necessary personnel for working with these populations. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop long-term strategies to create and train the specialists necessary for effectively supporting these groups.
Biography
Muna Mohamed Alhammadi is an Assistant Professor in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Education at Zayed University. She holds a Ph.D. in Inclusive Education from Deakin University, Australia. Before joining Zayed University, Dr. Alhammadi worked as a Disability Specialist for the Community Development Authority in Dubai. Additionally, she served as an adjunct faculty member at the Higher Colleges of Technology and as a disability specialist at the Ministry of Education of the United Arab Emirates. Dr. Alhammadi has published numerous studies related to inclusive education, disability legislation, and the specialists needed for people with disabilities. Her research interests include exploring the lived experiences of individuals with disabilities, inclusive education practices, and challenges at both school and higher education levels, as well as social justice for people with disabilities.
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