Abstract:
The main objective of this research is to investigate the role of academic leaders in
creating an inclusive environment through technology integration for students with
disabilities. In order to reach the objective outlined, the researcher employed an
explanatory mixed-methods design. The participants of the study were 32 academic
leaders, 62 teachers, 31 students with disabilities and five academic leaders for
qualitative investigation. The researcher collected data using two instruments: a
questionnaire for academic leaders, teachers, and students with disabilities and an
interview for academic leaders only. In conclusion, the correlation results among
academic leaders and SwDs was (-0.408) and Teachers and SwDs was (0.253). And
this result suggests that there is a "low extent" of technological integration at Ambo
University. Moreover, the multiple regression result (P = 0.053) proved that the three
variables of academic leaders’ traits, namely: inclusive leadership and vision;
inclusive support, management, and operations; and social, legal, and ethical issues,
are not significant predictors of SwDs' usage of technology. And the qualitative
investigation found that there are many reasons for the low technology integration,
such as problems with implementing the plan, a low enrollment rate of SwDs
themselves, collaboration between concerned bodies, and the enforcement of policies.
It is recommended that all members of the university community acknowledge and work
together to use technology to alleviate the teaching and learning problems of SwDs.
