A universidade pública e a acessibilidade: um resgate histórico sobre as práticas de inclusão até a estruturação das políticas de acessibilidade na UFRJ

Abstract

The present study aims to analyze and understand the context of accessibility policies at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. This objective arises from a broader desire to understand and reflect on the impact of the Social Model of Disability on the discussion of accessibility in Brazilian public universities, as well as the representation of this vast group of people with disabilities in the space of these policies. The survey took place between the months of October and November 2022, using a combination of the following descriptors: disability, social model of disability, accessibility and public universities. The study was conducted in several stages. Initially, a bibliographic and documentary review was carried out in two academic databases with the largest scientific circulation: Virtual Health Library (VHL) and CAPES/MEC Journal Portal. Next, sociohistorical data was collected that helped shape accessibility policies in Brazil, focusing on UFRJ. This included the analysis of legislation and international and national mobilizations related to accessibility. During the process, accessibility laws and the role of new technologies were examined, such as assistive technology and how they are applied in public universities, as well as the role they play in this context. Furthermore, interviews were conducted with UFRJ professionals to obtain direct information about the accessibility situation at the institution. To deepen the understanding of the trajectory of accessibility policies at UFRJ, the case study method was adopted. Finally, the study analyzed the broader context of accessibility policies in higher education and how these policies contribute to promoting inclusion and citizenship.