BULE HORA UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND BEHAVIORAL

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT OF SPECIAL NEEDS AND INCLUSIVE EDUCATION

COURSE NAME: INCLUSIVENESS

INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT (10%)

1. Evaluate the implications of medical and social models of disability for Inclusive
Education? And justify that which is more important?

The medical and social models of disability have distinct implications for inclusive
education.

The medical model of disability views disability as an individual problem residing within
the person with a disability. It focuses on impairments, disabilities, and limitations, and
suggests that the responsibility for accommodating and supporting individuals with
disabilities lies primarily with the medical and healthcare systems. In the context of
inclusive education, this model may lead to a focus on segregating students with
disabilities into separate special education settings or providing individualized
accommodations to address their specific needs.

On the other hand, the social model of disability understands disability as a social
construct that arises from the interaction between individuals with impairments and the
barriers present in society. It emphasizes that disability is not solely an individual's
problem but is largely caused by societal attitudes, physical environments, and systemic
barriers. Inclusive education, according to the social model, involves removing these
barriers and creating an educational environment that is accessible and accommodating to
all students, regardless of their abilities.
 The implications of the social model of disability for inclusive education are significant.
It promotes the idea of inclusive classrooms, where students with disabilities are educated
alongside their non-disabled peers. Inclusion is seen as a means of fostering diversity,
promoting equality, and preparing students for participation in an inclusive society.
Under the social model, inclusive education focuses on curriculum adaptations, universal
design for learning, assistive technologies, and promoting positive attitudes towards
diversity and disability.

In evaluating the importance of these models for inclusive education, it is crucial to

recognize that both have their merits. While the medical model acknowledges the
importance of addressing individual needs and providing necessary accommodations, the
social model emphasizes the need for systemic changes and removing barriers to create
an inclusive environment for all students.

However, the social model of disability is generally considered more important in the
context of inclusive education. It shifts the focus from "fixing" individuals to
transforming the educational environment. By recognizing disability as a social construct,
it advocates for inclusive policies, practices, and attitudes that benefit not only students
with disabilities but also the entire educational community. The social model promotes
inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunities for all students, fostering a more inclusive
and equitable society as a whole.

In conclusion, while both the medical and social models of disability have implications
for inclusive education, the social model is generally considered more important. It
emphasizes the need to remove societal barriers and create an inclusive educational
environment that benefits all students, regardless of their abilities. By adopting the
principles of the social model, inclusive education can become a transformative force in
promoting equality, diversity, and social inclusion.
2. Internalize methods that are used to change societal negative attitude towards
PWDs?
Changing societal negative attitudes towards people with disabilities requires a
multifaceted approach that involves various methods and strategies. Here are some
commonly employed methods:

Education and Awareness: Promoting education and awareness about disabilities is

crucial in challenging misconceptions and stereotypes. This can be done through public
campaigns, school curricula, workshops, and training programs. The aim is to provide
accurate information about disabilities, promote empathy, and foster understanding and
acceptance.

Media Representation: Encouraging positive and accurate portrayals of people with

disabilities in the media can help challenge negative stereotypes. Media platforms should
strive to include diverse and authentic representations of individuals with disabilities,
showcasing their abilities, achievements, and contributions.

Advocacy and Empowerment: Empowering people with disabilities to advocate for their
rights and inclusion is essential. Advocacy efforts can involve lobbying for policy
changes, promoting accessibility, and challenging discriminatory practices. By
amplifying the voices of individuals with disabilities, societal attitudes can gradually shift
towards greater acceptance and inclusion.

Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborating with disability advocacy organizations,

community groups, and other stakeholders can amplify efforts to change societal
attitudes. By working together, a collective voice can be formed to challenge negative
perceptions and promote inclusive practices.

Legislation and Policy Changes: Implementing and enforcing legislation that protects the
rights of people with disabilities is crucial. Laws and policies should address
discrimination, promote accessibility, and ensure equal opportunities in various domains,
including education, employment, and public services. Such legal frameworks can help
shape societal attitudes by setting clear expectations for inclusive practices.
 Personal Contact and Interaction: Encouraging personal contact and interaction between
individuals with and without disabilities can help break down barriers and foster
understanding. This can be facilitated through inclusive social events, community
programs, and initiatives that promote inclusive friendships and relationships.

Language and Communication: Promoting the use of respectful and inclusive language is
important. Encouraging people to use person-first language (e.g., "person with a
disability" instead of "disabled person") and avoiding derogatory terms or slurs can
contribute to a more respectful and inclusive society.

Workplace Inclusion: Promoting inclusive practices in the workplace is crucial in

changing societal attitudes. Providing equal employment opportunities, accommodations,
and fostering an inclusive work environment can challenge stereotypes and demonstrate
the abilities and contributions of individuals with disabilities.

It is important to note that changing societal attitudes takes time and sustained effort.
Combining multiple strategies and approaches can yield the most significant impact.
Additionally, involving people with disabilities themselves in the design and
implementation of these methods is crucial for ensuring that their perspectives and voices
are central to the process of changing societal attitudes.
3. List down the major barriers of inclusion in Ethiopia and suggest the means to
overcome them?
In Ethiopia, several barriers to inclusion exist that hinder the full participation of
individuals with disabilities in society. Here are some major barriers and potential means
to overcome them:

Lack of Awareness and Understanding: Limited awareness and understanding of

disabilities contribute to stigma, discrimination, and exclusion. To overcome this barrier,
awareness campaigns and educational programs should be implemented at various levels,
targeting the general public, communities, and educational institutions. These initiatives
can help promote understanding, empathy, and acceptance of individuals with
disabilities.

Inadequate Accessibility: Limited accessibility in public spaces, transportation, buildings,

and educational institutions poses significant challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Overcoming this barrier requires the implementation and enforcement of accessibility
standards and regulations. This includes ensuring that infrastructure is designed with
universal accessibility in mind, such as ramps, elevators, and accessible toilets.
Additionally, promoting the use of assistive technologies can enhance accessibility for
individuals with specific needs.

Limited Availability of Specialized Services: The lack of specialized services, such as

rehabilitation, assistive devices, and therapeutic interventions, can hinder the inclusion of
individuals with disabilities. To address this barrier, it is important to invest in the
development and expansion of these services across the country. This includes training
healthcare professionals, establishing rehabilitation centers, and ensuring the availability
and affordability of assistive devices.

Inadequate Inclusive Education: Limited access to quality inclusive education is a

significant barrier to inclusion. To overcome this, it is crucial to implement inclusive
education policies and practices that promote the full participation of students with
disabilities in mainstream schools. This includes providing necessary accommodations,
training teachers on inclusive teaching methods, and adapting the curriculum to meet
diverse needs. Additionally, fostering a supportive and accepting school environment is
essential.

Socioeconomic Challenges: Poverty, unemployment, and limited economic opportunities

disproportionately affect individuals with disabilities, making it difficult for them to fully
participate in society. Addressing this barrier requires a multi-faceted approach. It
involves implementing inclusive economic policies that promote employment
opportunities, vocational training, and entrepreneurship programs specifically targeted
 towards individuals with disabilities. Additionally, social protection programs can
provide financial support and assistance to individuals with disabilities and their families.

Cultural and Social Attitudes: Cultural beliefs, traditional practices, and negative social
attitudes towards disabilities can perpetuate exclusion and marginalization. Overcoming
this barrier requires community engagement and awareness-raising initiatives that
challenge stereotypes and promote positive attitudes towards individuals with disabilities.
Engaging community leaders, religious institutions, and local influencers can be effective
in shifting cultural norms and promoting inclusivity.

Legal and Policy Gaps: Inadequate legal frameworks and policies that protect the rights
of individuals with disabilities can be a significant barrier. Strengthening the legal
framework by enacting comprehensive disability rights laws and policies, aligned with
international standards such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons
with Disabilities (UNCRPD), is crucial. Additionally, ensuring the effective
implementation and enforcement of these laws is essential for overcoming this barrier.

It is important to recognize that addressing these barriers requires a collaborative effort

involving government entities, civil society organizations, community members, and
individuals with disabilities themselves. By implementing comprehensive strategies that
address these barriers, Ethiopia can foster a more inclusive society that promotes the
rights and full participation of individuals with disabilities.
4. Based on your personal experience or and from your reading, what do you thing
person with disability face at home level, in school level and even in the work place
in your locality?
As an AI language model, I don't have personal experiences or a specific locality as I
exist solely within the digital realm. However, I can provide you with some general
insights based on commonly reported challenges faced by persons with disabilities in
various settings, including home, school, and the workplace, as described in relevant
literature and research.
Home Level:
Limited accessibility: Many homes are not designed or modified to be accessible for
individuals with disabilities, which can pose challenges in terms of mobility and
independence.
Lack of assistive devices and support: Some individuals with disabilities may not have
access to necessary assistive devices or support services within their homes, which can
affect their daily activities and overall well-being.
Attitudinal barriers: Negative attitudes or misconceptions within the family towards
disability can contribute to exclusion, reduced opportunities, and limited support for
individuals with disabilities.
School Level:
Lack of inclusive education: In many educational settings, inclusive education practices
are still limited, making it difficult for students with disabilities to fully participate and
access quality education.
Insufficient accommodations: Students with disabilities may face challenges in accessing
appropriate accommodations and support within the classroom, including assistive
technologies, specialized materials, or support from trained professionals.
Bullying and social exclusion: Students with disabilities may experience higher rates of
bullying, social isolation, and discrimination within the school environment, which can
negatively impact their well-being and educational experience.
Workplace Level:
Limited job opportunities: Persons with disabilities often face barriers to employment due
to discriminatory practices, limited job opportunities, and employers' assumptions about
their abilities.
Inaccessible work environments: Many workplaces lack accessibility features, such as
ramps, accessible restrooms, and adaptive technologies, which can hinder the full
participation and inclusion of employees with disabilities.
Negative attitudes and stereotypes: Negative attitudes and stereotypes towards disability
can lead to stigma, bias, and unequal treatment in the workplace, affecting employment
opportunities, career advancement, and workplace relationships.
 It is essential to note that experiences vary significantly depending on factors such as the
specific disability, local context, societal attitudes, and available support systems. Efforts
to address these challenges involve promoting inclusive policies, raising awareness,
providing reasonable accommodations, and fostering inclusive attitudes and practices at
home, in schools, and within the workplace.
5. As we live in the community who have negative attitude towards person with
disability how you can address the issue of disability in your filed of specialization?
(hint: refer different national policy frameworks, strategies, proclamation of
Ethiopia regarding disability issues)
In the context of Ethiopia, several national policy frameworks, strategies, and
proclamations have been developed to address disability issues. Here are some ways to
address the issue of disability:

Familiarize Yourself with National Policies: Begin by familiarizing yourself with

national policies, strategies, and proclamations related to disability in Ethiopia. Key
documents include the National Policy on Disability (2010), the Revised National Plan of
Action on Disability (2012-2021), and the Ethiopian Proclamation on the Rights of
Persons with Disabilities (2019). Understanding the goals, principles, and strategies
outlined in these documents will provide a foundation for your work.

Raise Awareness and Promote Understanding: Education and awareness are critical in
addressing negative attitudes towards disability. Utilize your field of specialization to
raise awareness about disability issues, promote understanding, and challenge
stereotypes. This can be done through awareness campaigns, training programs,
workshops, and community engagement initiatives.

 COPING FROM EACH OTHER LETS YOU 0 MARKS