Cancer, disability, higher education
Project Description:
This pilot research project will enable us to begin to describe the population of students at the University of Arizona who have had or have cancer. People living with cancer may have short and long-term effects of cancer treatment that cause impairment and can substantially limit their major life activities, such as walking, talking, breathing, eating, caring for oneself, or other activities of daily living. Childhood cancer, in particular, can leave people with long-term cognitive impairments that may delay or impede their education. In this research, we will begin to identify key institutional and individual stakeholders essential to students success in the University and beyond, in order to begin to develop an intervention for further study.
Specific aims of the pilot research include:
1. Describe the population of student cancer survivors connected to the DRC and determine their needs and support-seeking. We will administer an online survey to UA students (Maximum N=200). Recruitment will take place through the Disability Resource Center (DRC) registration of students who have been identified as having a chronic illness and through university networks. The survey will screen for cancer survivors, determine their cancer history, and assess their interest in participating in research. A secondary outcome of this approach will be to determine the feasibility of conducting research with this population.
2. Qualitatively examine students practical needs within the context of the services available to students on campus. In two focus groups with students (N=16) and one group with campus service providers (N=8), we will examine needs, facilitators, and barriers to support for students living with cancer. In in-depth interviews, the researchers will solicit students history of support seeking and their current approaches and concerns.
Keyword(s):
chronic disease; transition; higher education
Core Function(s):
Performing Research or Evaluation, Developing & Disseminating Information
Area of Emphasis
Education & Early Intervention, Employment-Related Activities, Quality of Life
Target Audience:
Professionals and Para-Professionals, Adults with Disabilities
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
None
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
Single-County
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
