Estudiantes con ceguera en una universidad inclusiva de Ecuador

Zusammenfassung

The aim of the research is to understand in depth the experiences lived by the students of the Technical University of Manabí with total blindness in their vital and academic context, and to deduce formative implications for teacher training in the framework of inclusive university education. The methodology is addressed through a multiple case study based on the knowledge of four blind participants enrolled in the UTM. Data collection and analysis techniques are explored in two axes: one synchronous and one diachronic. In the first axis, semi-structured interviews and a focus group are applied to students, structured interviews to their managers and teachers, as well as to their peers. The diachronic axis is based on a biographicalnarrative study, which involves life stories referred by the students themselves by their families. The data obtained is analyzed through the ATLAS.ti 8. The main results gravitate around two issues. The first is that their most significant life and academic experiences are related to barriers that prevent their access and the achievement of educational learning and participation, although in the university they revolve around teachers' attitudes and institutional management. The second is that deficiencies are perceived in the teaching training processes of the UTM teachers in inclusive education, and, specifically, in terms of attention to students with visual disabilities. In conclusion, this university has made efforts in the area of inclusive education in the region. There is still a long way to go, mainly in terms of applied pedagogical teacher training. Keywords: blind students, inclusive education, university, Ecuador, teacher training