Abstract

Inclusive education is a critical component of higher education, ensuring that students with learning disabilities (LDs) receive equitable access to academic opportunities and institutional support. While global advancements in inclusive education have been significant, the UAE’s higher education sector faces unique challenges in accommodating students with LDs, particularly as technological disruptions, demographic shifts, and evolving policies reshape the broader educational landscape. This research investigates how a higher education institution in the UAE, such as RIT Dubai, might adapt its support systems for students with LDs, such as ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and dyspraxia, under a range of plausible future conditions shaped by forces beyond its control. Guided by a Foresight and Future Planning (FFP) approach, the study integrates two strategic foresight methodologies: horizon scanning and scenario planning. Horizon scanning will identify emerging trends, technologies, and social changes likely to influence inclusive education. Scenario planning will synthesize these inputs to generate four plausible external environments (“inclusive education landscapes”) that may challenge or enable institutional efforts to support students with LDs. Drawing on qualitative and secondary data sources—including policy documents, academic literature, and stakeholder reports - this study aims to produce a strategic foresight framework that guides how UAE higher education institutions might respond to diverse futures. The expected outcomes include future-oriented strategies and recommendations for building adaptive, resilient, and inclusive support systems. By anticipating change and external uncertainty, this research supports institutional readiness and enhances the educational success of students with LDs in evolving learning environments.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Inclusive education--United Arab Emirates--Forecasting; People with disabilities in higher education--United Arab Emirates; Self-help devices for people with disabilities--United Arab Emirates

Publication Date

5-20-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Professional Studies (MS)

Department, Program, or Center

Graduate Programs & Research

Advisor

Sanjay Modak

Advisor/Committee Member

Woody Wade

Campus

RIT Dubai

Plan Codes

PROFST-MS

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