Mobility Challenges for Impaired Teachers and Students in USIM: Initial Research Inquiry

Mobility impairments refer to a broad range of disabilities which limit functions of moving in any of the limbs, or in fine motor ability. Students and teachers with mobility impairments rely on assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches, and artificial limbs to obtain mobility. Mobility impairments may involve limitations in performing certain acts such as entering classrooms, sitting for long periods of time, manipulating pencils and writing. For this, Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia has established the Guidelines for the Implementation of the Inclusive Policy of OKU (Orang Kurang Upaya @ disabled people) at institutions of higher learning. In response to the Disability Act of 2008 that mandates Disability Inclusion Policy at all education levels. This paper is a preliminary research review to start highlighting the need for designing facilities and classrooms that are accommodating and supportive for everyone, regardless of their physical abilities.