Social Model of Disability (FutureLearn)

More than one billion people are disabled globally. There is evidence that disabled people experience significant inequalities compared to other people in society. This is because they face barriers that stop them from taking part in society in the same way as non-disabled people.

Discover the history and impact of the social model of disability

You’ll start by exploring the origins of the model and learn about the significant contributions of disabled activists around the world.

Next, you’ll focus on how the model can be used as a tool for removing barriers and promoting/creating social inclusion.

Through case studies, you’ll reflect on why barriers even exist in society and how the model’s insights can be put into practice.

Learn how to achieve diversity and inclusion

The model will enable you to view disability in a different way. Its transformative nature will help you understand how we need to act individually and collectively to create a more inclusive society.

Understanding disability from a social perspective, rather than an individual one, changes the way people think about themselves, and they are viewed by others.

By centering the voices and lived experiences of disabled people, you will see the impact the social model of disability is already making. Through this, you’ll also understand how it can inform personal and professional contexts and be used to shape policies and practice to help build a fairer future for all.

Syllabus

Week 1: What is the social model of disability and why does it matter?

Week 2: What is the impact of the social model of disability?

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

Describe how disability is shaped by social and cultural contexts.

Explain the main principles of the social model of disability and its implications.

Explore the disruptive and transformative nature of the social model.

Investigate the contribution and influence of the disabled people’s movement in establishing the social model

Reflect on how the application of social model ideas and approaches can shape policy and practice.

Who is the course for?

This course is designed for anyone interested in furthering their knowledge of disability and how the social model has affected the experiences of disabled people and society as a whole.

You may be considering studying disability studies at postgraduate level or work with disabled communities in professional or advocacy contexts. Whatever your background, this course will give you a taste of the approach to disability adopted by the University’s Disability Studies online masters.

Completing this course can help improve your university application by broadening your understanding of disability studies.