Date Approved

4-27-2026

Graduate Degree Type

Project

Degree Name

Education (M.Ed.)

Degree Program

College of Education

First Advisor

Karyn E. Rabourn

Academic Year

2025/2026

Abstract

Research has shown that students with reported visual impairments are continuously underrepresented in study abroad programs, despite institutions promoting study abroad as a high-impact practice that benefits students of diverse backgrounds. Although study abroad participation has been increasing in recent years, students with disabilities, and particularly those with visual impairments, engage at disproportionately low rates. A lack of comprehensible information about program environments and available accommodations are contributing factors to this trend. This project is intended to improve the clarity of study abroad program materials through the development of a Universal Design for Study Abroad Guidebook. Guided by the principles of Universal Design and the five environments of study abroad, this project provides study abroad professionals with an approach to create inclusive and informative program pages for the broadest audience possible. By equipping professionals with tools and strategies to create detailed program information, this project aims to ease the burden of students searching for programs that meet their specific needs and ultimately expand access to study abroad opportunities for students of all abilities.

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