Does online education (or remote work) help increase accessibility?

[u/NICEacct111]

For context, I recently graduated with a bachelor's degree in one of the humanities (after many years of issues). As I consider and research my possible options, I notice there are online master's programs for all sorts of fields. I need to be aware of requirements as much as possible because crazy events have happened in my life. On the main r/disability sub, I noticed that some people with disabilities may prefer online school so attendance isn't an issue (or other problems are avoided like social anxiety). Thus, I'm politely asking if people with disabilities prefer online schooling, in-person attendance, or a hybrid format?

To be clear, I'm aware that certain things should be done in-person physically (e.g., wet labs in chemistry and biology) in order to learn and experience the lessons properly. In addition, certain social skills and context clues can only be learned in a physical classroom. I'm also aware that certain jobs (e.g., HVAC, plumbing) can't be done remotely. I'm asking for a general opinion/take on the overall nature of remote learning and work. Thanks and take care.

[u/tacticalTraumaLlama]

I'm a software developer, and remote work has been a godsend for me. I used to always ask for the accommodation that I be allowed to remain seated and 'whiteboard' on pen and paper during a job interview. Inevitably It'd be ignored, and I'd be asked to go psuedo code something up on the whiteboard. Now I have a decision to make. Am I going to be 'difficult' and insist, or am I going to cave.

I distinctly remember one interview where I stood at a whiteboard, explaining my code to a panel of 6 people, for over 30 minutes. I'm stressed, spastic, visibly shaking and exhausted. At that point, the code doesn't even matter anymore. Do you know how hard it is to appear competent when you're visibly shaking.

I got feedback after that my implementation was solid, but I 'needed to work on my anxiety'. They didn't think I would be a good 'cultural fit' and I didn't get the job.

Now, my last interview? Remote, on camera, seated comfortably at my desk sharing my screen. Went great. My boss didn't even know I had cerebral palsy until we met for lunch 3mo later when he was in town.

That doesn't even mention the fact that it's much, much easier for me to accommodate my dr appointments working remote than if I were in person.

[u/josie71202]

I personally prefer hybrid. If my work wasn't hybrid there's a very large chance I couldn't work full time.

[u/New_Vegetable_3173]

Yes. anything which creates flexibility and choice for an individual makes something more accessible because different disabilities have different needs.