An evaluation of student experience of joining and participating in student groups in Jedlička Institute and School

Abstract

Mariana Morari An evaluation of student experience of joining and participating in student groups in Jedlička Institute and School 52 p., 2 appendixes February 2019 Diaconia University of Applied Sciences Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Social Services Bachelor of Social Services This study aimed to identify factors that affect a person with disabilities’ involvement in groups. The study looked at the factors through the relationships in the group and the limits and supporting mechanisms that relate to group involvement. The final product of the research is the production of recommendations called for to improve students’ involvement in groups. The functional concept of groups and the bio-psycho-social concept of disability represent the theoretical approach. The study follows a qualitative research methodology, primarily utilizing semi-structured interviews. All interviews took place among high school students of the Jedlička Institute and Schools in autumn 2018. The findings showed that as Jedlička Institute and Schools’ students have different health conditions, they also have different needs related to accessibility. On the Jedlička Institute and Schools territory, the environment together with personal assistants assures that the students have opportunities to be involved in groups. It is not the same with the environment outside Jedlička Institute and Schools. As the groups sometimes have presentations and tournaments outside the institution, the group leaders have to deal with a lack of accessibility in Prague. Part of the reality is that the group members are not involved neither in the organisation of the group meetings or the theatre presentations.