S01E19 – disABILITY as Culture and Cognition in Higher Education, An Interview with Dr. Michelle Rigler, Executive Director of the Disability Resource Center at UT Chattanooga




The Unlikely Academic Podcast, The Real Graduate School Experience! show

Summary: This episode of the Unlikely Academics Podcast explores the theme of disability and accessibility for potential and current graduate students as well as best practices for teaching assistants and new faculty. Tommy Coleman and Chris Silver Interview Dr. Michelle Rigler regarding her experience as a disability advocate related to her experiences with creating and sustaining accessibility on campus, notifying faculty of accommodations for students, and some of the types of indicators of disability-friendly graduate programs and employment. Further, Dr. Rigler shares a short history on the Americans with Disability Act, the types of programming and support services at UT Chattanooga, and model programs at other universities which create a warm and welcome space for those with disabilities. She also highlights that not all disabilities are apparent, but some are hidden and the role we all play in not assuming we can understand other’s challenges. Dr. Rigler suggests methods for ensuring the course curriculum is accessible and faculty and teaching assistants being open to feedback regarding curricular changes. She ends by stating that we all have to be patient with ourselves as we learn from others, and no two disability narratives are alike. She suggests being mindful of others and coordinate with one’s Disability Resource Center either in support of one’s own educational goals or in facilitating accessible course spaces for all types of students. For more information on Dr. Rigler or the UT Chattanooga Disability Resource Center please go to https://www.utc.edu/disability-resource-center/