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Exploring Models of Disability

Katie Ellis, Mike Kent, and Gwyneth Peaty

This six-week MOOC is designed to introduce students to various “models of disability” that are foundational to the critical disability research we conduct in the Critical Disability Research Network, and that inform the boarder disability studies discipline.

Learners will gain a good understanding the main models of disability and how they interplay. These models provide new ways of seeing how disability interfaces with society, and provide important background for any further formal study in this area. They also provide useful tools for people working with people with disabilities, such as supporters and advocates.

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This six-week MOOC is designed to introduce students to various “models of disability” that are foundational to the critical disability research we conduct in the Critical Disability Research Network, and that inform the boarder disability studies discipline.

Learners will gain a good understanding the main models of disability and how they interplay. These models provide new ways of seeing how disability interfaces with society, and provide important background for any further formal study in this area. They also provide useful tools for people working with people with disabilities, such as supporters and advocates.

What you'll learn

  • Module 1: The medical model of disability
  • Module 2: The tragedy model of disability
  • Module 3: The social model of disability
  • Module 4: The cultural model of disability
  • Module 5: The human rights model of disability
  • Module 6: Critical disability studies
Enroll now

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops understanding of various models of disability, providing a foundation for critical disability research and advocacy
Taught by recognized instructors in the field of disability studies, including Katie Ellis, Gwyneth Peaty, and Mike Kent
Explores the social model of disability and its importance in addressing societal barriers and promoting inclusion
Examines the human rights model of disability, highlighting the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities
Provides useful tools and perspectives for supporters and advocates working with people with disabilities
Introduces critical disability studies, a field that challenges traditional perspectives and promotes social justice for people with disabilities

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Reviews summary

Disability models: foundational, transformative insights

According to learners, 'Exploring Models of Disability' offers a deeply comprehensive and transformative exploration of key disability models. Students frequently praise its ability to provide a strong foundational understanding of how disability interfaces with society, making it invaluable for professionals, students, and advocates. While the course delivers crucial insights and is praised for its well-structured content, some learners found the extensive readings and theoretical focus to be a significant workload, and a few noted a lack of interactive elements. It is recommended for those seeking academic rigor and conceptual understanding rather than practical 'how-to's'.
Video quality improved over time; some earlier content felt less engaging.
"My only minor critique is that some of the earlier video quality was a bit low, but this improved in later weeks."
"While the topic is crucial, I struggled with the presentation style. The lectures were often just talking heads..."
"The video quality for some early modules was not great, which made it harder to follow. Later videos seemed better."
"Some of the references felt slightly dated too. Still, the core concepts are timeless and valuable."
Strong conceptual foundation, less emphasis on practical applications.
"If you're looking for practical 'how-to's', this might not be it, but it's great for conceptual understanding."
"I would have liked perhaps one more practical example module, but overall, it delivers on its promise of foundational knowledge."
"It’s heavy on theory, but that's what it aims to be."
"The concepts introduced are crucial for a modern understanding of disability."
Instructors are knowledgeable; discussions foster learning.
"The instructors are clearly experts and passionate. The course opened my eyes to the societal barriers..."
"The forum discussions were quite engaging."
"The discussion forums were vibrant and contributed much to my learning."
"An indispensable course for anyone entering the field of disability studies or working with disabled communities."
Broadens understanding and challenges preconceived notions.
"This course was truly transformative. It provided a deeply comprehensive exploration of various disability models, challenging my preconceived notions."
"As a healthcare professional, I found this course invaluable for broadening my perspective beyond the medical model."
"It provides crucial insights for anyone interacting with or advocating for disabled individuals."
"I loved this course. It gave me a strong foundation for understanding the complex issues around disability."
Extensive readings require significant time commitment.
"I found the pace quite challenging with the amount of required reading. It felt a bit dry at times..."
"It's not a 'light' course; it requires dedication to the readings."
"The content is strong, but the course design felt a bit old-fashioned. A lot of reading, not much interactivity."
"Good information, but the workload was significant for a free MOOC."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Exploring Models of Disability with these activities:
Volunteer with an organization that works with people with disabilities
Volunteering with an organization that works with people with disabilities will provide you with firsthand experience and insights into the lived experiences of people with disabilities.
Show steps
  • Research and identify organizations in your community that work with people with disabilities.
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Attend training and orientation sessions provided by the organization.
Review foundational sociology concepts
Reviewing foundational sociology concepts will provide a strong foundation for understanding the models of disability covered in this course.
Browse courses on Disability Studies
Show steps
  • Review key sociological theories and perspectives, such as functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism.
  • Read classic texts in sociology, such as those by Durkheim, Weber, and Marx.
  • Take practice quizzes or self-assessments to test your understanding of key concepts.
Read and review a key text in the field of disability studies, such as 'Disability Studies: A Reader' by Lennard J. Davis
Reading and reviewing a key text in disability studies will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the field and its core concepts.
View Enabling Acts on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book and set aside dedicated time for reading.
  • Read the book actively, taking notes and highlighting important passages.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Create a concept map of the different models of disability
Creating a concept map will help you visualize the relationships between the different models of disability and how they inform the broader disability studies discipline.
Show steps
  • Identify the main concepts and theories associated with each model of disability.
  • Use a visual tool, such as a mind map or flowchart, to organize and connect the concepts.
  • Add examples and case studies to illustrate how the different models apply to real-world situations.
Participate in a peer discussion group to debate the strengths and weaknesses of different models of disability
Engaging in peer discussions will provide you with diverse perspectives and challenge your own understanding of the different models of disability.
Show steps
  • Join or start a peer discussion group specifically focused on disability studies or critical disability research.
  • Prepare for discussions by reading the assigned course materials and conducting additional research.
  • Actively participate in discussions, sharing your own insights and perspectives while also listening attentively to others.
Practice applying the different models of disability to real-world scenarios
Practicing applying the different models of disability will help you develop a deeper understanding of their implications and limitations.
Show steps
  • Identify real-world situations or case studies that involve issues of disability.
  • Apply each model of disability to analyze the situation and identify its strengths and weaknesses.
  • Compare and contrast the different models and discuss their implications for understanding and addressing disability.
Contribute to open-source projects related to disability
Contributing to open-source projects related to disability will allow you to apply your knowledge and skills while also making a meaningful contribution to the disability community.
Show steps
  • Identify open-source projects related to disability, such as assistive technology development or accessibility audits.
  • Review the project documentation and identify areas where you can contribute.
  • Contact the project maintainers and express your interest in contributing.
Develop a research proposal or project plan for a study on a topic related to disability
Developing a research proposal or project plan will provide you with hands-on experience in designing and planning a research study on disability.
Show steps
  • Identify a specific research topic related to disability that interests you.
  • Conduct a literature review to gather background information and identify gaps in knowledge.
  • Develop a research question or hypothesis.

Career center

Learners who complete Exploring Models of Disability will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Disability Advocate
Disability Advocates support and empower individuals with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in society. This course provides a foundation in understanding various models of disability, which is essential for Disability Advocates to effectively advocate for the rights and needs of people with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more holistic perspective on disability and its impact on individuals and society. This course may also be useful for Disability Advocates who wish to specialize in working with specific disability groups or in areas such as employment, education, or housing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Disability Advocate
Disability Policy Analyst
Disability Policy Analysts conduct research and develop policies that affect people with disabilities. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Disability Policy Analysts to develop effective policies. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the needs and challenges faced by people with disabilities. This course may also be useful for Disability Policy Analysts who wish to specialize in specific areas such as employment, education, or housing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Disability Policy Analyst
Disability Rights Lawyer
Disability Rights Lawyers advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Disability Rights Lawyers to effectively advocate for their clients. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the legal issues and challenges faced by people with disabilities. This course may also be useful for Disability Rights Lawyers who wish to specialize in specific areas such as employment, education, or housing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Disability Rights Lawyer
Disability Studies Professor
Disability Studies Professors teach and conduct research on disability. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Disability Studies Professors to effectively teach and conduct research. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the history, theory, and practice of disability studies. This course may also be useful for Disability Studies Professors who wish to specialize in specific areas such as employment, education, or housing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Disability Studies Professor
Disability Support Worker
Disability Support Workers provide support and assistance to people with disabilities. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Disability Support Workers to effectively support people with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and how to provide effective support. This course may also be useful for Disability Support Workers who wish to specialize in working with specific disability groups or in areas such as employment, education, or housing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Disability Support Worker
Disability Inclusion Consultant
Disability Inclusion Consultants help organizations create inclusive environments for people with disabilities. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Disability Inclusion Consultants to effectively consult with organizations. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the barriers faced by people with disabilities and how to create more inclusive environments. This course may also be useful for Disability Inclusion Consultants who wish to specialize in specific areas such as employment, education, or housing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Disability Inclusion Consultant
Social Worker
Social Workers help people with a variety of challenges, including disability. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Social Workers to effectively support people with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and how to provide effective support.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help people with disabilities improve their ability to perform everyday activities. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Occupational Therapists to effectively help people with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and how to develop effective interventions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Occupational Therapist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologists help people with disabilities communicate. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Speech-Language Pathologists to effectively help people with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and how to develop effective interventions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Speech-Language Pathologist
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapists help people with disabilities improve their physical function. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Physical Therapists to effectively help people with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and how to develop effective interventions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physical Therapist
Psychologist
Psychologists help people with a variety of mental health challenges, including disability. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Psychologists to effectively support people with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and how to provide effective support.
See salaries and explore the career path for Psychologist
Case Manager
Case Managers help people with disabilities navigate the complex systems of care and support. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Case Managers to effectively support people with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and how to provide effective support.
See salaries and explore the career path for Case Manager
Rehabilitation Counselor
Rehabilitation Counselors help people with disabilities return to work or school. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Rehabilitation Counselors to effectively support people with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and how to develop effective interventions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Rehabilitation Counselor
Disability Management Specialist
Disability Management Specialists help employers create and manage disability management programs. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Disability Management Specialists to effectively create and manage programs that support employees with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by employees with disabilities and how to develop effective programs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Disability Management Specialist
Assistive Technology Specialist
Assistive Technology Specialists help people with disabilities use assistive technology to improve their independence and quality of life. This course provides a foundation in understanding the different models of disability, which is essential for Assistive Technology Specialists to effectively support people with disabilities. By gaining a deeper understanding of the medical, tragedy, social, cultural, and human rights models of disability, learners can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and how to develop effective interventions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Assistive Technology Specialist

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Exploring Models of Disability.
Cover image
Inclusion Includes Us
Save
As a pioneering work in the social model of disability, this book challenges the traditional medical model and provides a framework for understanding disability as a social construct.
Inclusion Includes Us: Building Bridges and...
Paperback
$$
Inclusion Includes Us: Building Bridges and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Disability Studies Reader
Save
This foundational text in disability studies brings together key works from the field, addressing various models of disability and their implications for social policy and practice.
The Disability Studies Reader
Paperback
Check
The Disability Studies Reader
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Visual Impairment and Work
Save
This textbook offers a concise and accessible introduction to disability studies, providing an overview of the different models of disability and their impact on education, employment, and society.
Visual Impairment and Work
Paperback
Check
Visual Impairment and Work
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Key Issues in Special Educational Needs, Disability...
Save
Presents the cultural model of disability, arguing that disability is not an inherent attribute of individuals but rather a product of social and cultural norms and expectations.
Key Issues in Special Educational Needs, Disability...
Paperback
$$
Key Issues in Special Educational Needs, Disability...
Paperback
$$
Key Issues in Special Educational Needs, Disability...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Supported Decision-Making
Save
Provides a practical guide to the laws that affect people with disabilities.
Supported Decision-Making: Theory, Research, and...
Hardcover
$$$
Supported Decision-Making: Theory, Research, and...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Human Rights and Disability
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the controversies surrounding disability.
Human Rights and Disability: The Current Use and...
Paperback
Check Price

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Course image
Effort
1 to 2 hours per week for 6 weeks
Level
Elementary
Via
edX
Institution
Curtin University
Instructors
Katie Ellis
Mike Kent
Gwyneth Peaty
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops understanding of various models of disability, providing a foundation for critical disability research and advocacy
Taught by recognized instructors in the field of disability studies, including Katie Ellis, Gwyneth Peaty, and Mike Kent
Explores the social model of disability and its importance in addressing societal barriers and promoting inclusion
Examines the human rights model of disability, highlighting the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities
Provides useful tools and perspectives for supporters and advocates working with people with disabilities
Introduces critical disability studies, a field that challenges traditional perspectives and promotes social justice for people with disabilities
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