The COVID-19 Pandemic and the education and work of people with disability (Research Week 2020)

The COVID-19 pandemic, and the subsequent government management strategies, resulted in significant changes and uncertainties for the education and work of people around the world. These impacts were considerable for people with disability, their families, their education and work settings, and the professionals and organisations that support people with disability. Western Sydney University will host a public discussion with a panel of experts to explore the issues, challenges and opportunities that have emerged as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Questions include: What are the experiences of people with disability as students and workers? What are the experience of their families? What are the experiences of people and organisations that support, educate, employ and/or partner with people with disability? What are the opportunities arising from this pandemic to improve education and work for people with disability? What are the opportunities for research to inform policy and practice improvements? The session will commence with a dialogue between the panel of experts to share their experiences and perspectives addressing these questions. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and contribute to the evolving ideas. The session will conclude with reflections from panel members about what next positive actions can be taken in the areas of research, policy and practice to capitalise on the experience of COVID-19 pandemic to improve the education and work of people with disability.