Desafios e possibilidades para alunos apoiadores na Universidade Federal da Paraíba: um relato de experiência

Abstract

The academic path in Higher Education is challenging for all students, especially for those who have some type of disability and/or specific need, due to the numerous barriers experienced throughout the educational process. Given this reality, understanding the importance of institutional policies that favor access and permanence of these students in university is an essential step towards the academic success of this group of students who have been so disadvantaged over the years. Among the actions aimed at inclusion and accessibility within the scope of the Federal University of Paraíba, in this final course work, we reflect on the difficulties, as well as the growth and importance of the Supporting Student program to guarantee inclusion and accessibility. This study aims to identify challenges and possibilities related to the work of student supporters at the Federal University of Paraíba. As a theoretical basis, we used legal documents and also studies and research carried out in relation to support programs for students with disabilities in Brazilian universities. The methodology of this study, based on qualitative approaches, included the construction of a report of our experience as a student supporting a student with disability enrolled at UFPB. The results demonstrated that the student supporters experience challenges in their relationships with their supported students, with teachers and with other classmates. In view of these challenges, we highlight the important role played by supporters in the learning process and retention of students with disabilities and/or specific educational needs in UFPB courses. Finally, we highlight the need for new research to be carried out in order to evaluate the program and propose improvements for its continuity.