MD1A
Learning Resources
Note: Be sure to complete this module’s Discussion before reviewing the Learning Resources.
Required Resources
- Web Article: “What is Disability Culture?”
http://www.independentliving.org/newsletter/12-01.html - Web Blog: “The Language of Autism”
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/02/28/the-language-of-autism/Note: Be sure to watch the video included in the blog, “In My Language,” which is also posted at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnylM1hI2jc
- Web Article: “Belonging: Introducing Kids to Disability Culture”
http://www.articles.complexchild.com/Oct2008/00071.pdf
Optional Resources
- Web Article: “We Are Who We Are So Who Are We? Musings on the Definition of Disability Culture”
http://www.independentliving.org/docs3/brown96b.html - Web Site: Disability Culture is Thriving in NYC
http://www.disabilityculture.org/ - Web Site: Museum of disAbility History
http://www.museumofdisability.org/
Assignment: Learning About Disability Culture
The Web articles and video “In My Language” present a unique perspective on disability from people who have disabilities, and provide an overview of disability culture and the role that it can play in supporting belonging, acceptance, and individuality for people with disabilities. The Web article, “Belonging: Introducing Kids to Disability Culture,” presents a rationale and strategies for introducing children with disabilities to disability culture.
After you have read the articles and watched the video, reflect on the following questions:
- What have you learned about disability culture? What role does it play in supporting belonging and acceptance for persons with disabilities?
- How does disability culture cultivate a sense of individuality, where unique strengths, capabilities, and ways of viewing, processing, and interacting with the world are celebrated?
- How can understanding disability culture foster an understanding of the fine line between ability and disability?
Submit a summary of your thinking by articulating:
- Your perspective of disability culture, and its role in supporting belonging, acceptance, and individuality for children with disabilities
- Your thoughts on how ability and disability is defined by culture, and how understanding disability culture can lend insight into preconceived notions about ability and foster increased understanding regarding the wide range of human ability
Note: Use examples from the reading to support your thinking and illustrate the ways that your understanding has expanded and/or deepened. Be sure to cite your sources.
Assignment length: 2 pages
