Readings and Research in Disability

Program Overview

This seminar-style course explores disability through theory and research, covering topics such as its definition, conceptualizations, historical perspectives, and research challenges. Students will delve into contemporary research and examine perceptions of disability. The course culminates in an independent research project, guided by an esteemed faculty member.

Program Outline

Outline:

• Course Content: Students will explore disability through theory and research.
• Introduction to Disability: Students will be introduced to the definition and meaning of disability, including its social, cultural, historical, legal, and political perspectives.
• Conceptualizations and Models of Disability: Students will learn about different conceptualizations and models of disability.
• Historical Perspectives: Students will gain an understanding of the historical perspectives on disability.
• Intersectionality: Students will explore the intersection of disability with other social identities such as gender, sexuality, and race/ethnicity.
• Research Challenges: Students will review and discuss the challenges of conducting research with people with disabilities.
• Contemporary Research: Students will read and critique contemporary research involving people with disabilities.
• Perceptions of Disability: Students will examine research on perceptions of disability among people with and without disabilities.
• Research Project: Students will design and implement an independent research project related to disability.
• Project Guidance: Students will receive individual advising to design a research project that is ethical, realistic, and a novel contribution to the field.
• Data Collection: Students are encouraged to use existing, publicly available data, but may also collect their own data within the UMass or broader community.
• Course Structure:

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The course is a seminar, suggesting a discussion-based approach.
• Faculty: Ashley Woodman

Other:

• Eligibility: The course is open to students in the Commonwealth Honors College.
• Credit: 4 credits
• Mode: In Person
• Component: Seminar
• Subject: HONORS
• Catalog Number: 499DJ
• Class Number: 18380
• Class Attributes: HONS: ENRICHED, SYNC: REQUIRED
• Academic Career: UGRD