Abstract
The paper describes, with due reference to ethical considerations, the planning and methodology of, and preliminary findings from a series of case studies (currently in progress) of the experiences of young adults with severe medical conditions within post-school education. The research was planned in the light of the Tomlinson and Beattie Reports in England and Wales and in Scotland respectively. A group of five young adults, who have themselves serious medical conditions which fluctuate or are deteriorating, formed a planning and advisory group with the researcher/author. They also participated in the research, with fifteen other young adults.
Curricular, supportive and personal aspects of educational experience were explored. Substantial weighting was given to students' own self-reported perspectives given both through interview and by a week's written, illustrated or recorded diary (the focus of this paper). However, the group agreed that data should also be gathered from I) a member of staff of the providing educational establishment/service nominated by the individual student (in relation to the student's curricular progress and social inclusion), and ii) the member of staff responsible for co-ordinating and enabling the inclusion of students with diverse needs (in relation to each establishment's official policies and approved practices).
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