ENSINO SUPERIOR E PRÁTICAS INCLUSIVAS

The research aims to analyze the perception of students with Specific Needs at the University of Algarve/Portugal regarding inclusion. Specifically, it analyzes inclusive practices, accessibility, the main barriers, and challenges faced by students in their academic lives. The sample (N= 32) is composed of a group of students assisted by the Support Office for Students with Special Educational Needs (GAENEE), aged between 19 and 40 years (M= 24.09; SD= 6.60). The participants answered a survey designed for the study available online. From the analysis and data interpretation, based on thematic analysis, it was found that the measures applied by UAlg generally responded to the e student's needs, although some expressed a certain dissatisfaction. The students feel included and respected, which suggests that UAlg and GAENEE have been developing inclusive practices for non-discrimination and effective participation of these students in university life. Although teaching staff revealed willingness to adapt pedagogical practices to the student's specific needs, the results suggest the need for improved professional qualifications for teachers, and greater knowledge of inclusive methodologies and practices. The present study highlights that there is still some way to go towards an Inclusive University, allowing the results to be used to improve the institutional response, plan actions, and set new targets for action, contributing to the improvement of the inclusion policy and academic support for these students in the university environment.