Models of disability - breakout room activity by Aparna Mukherjee

Group Members :

snahysaraf25_ece2 — 2025-09-15 18:13:43 UTC

Parvathy, Reshma, Safoora, Shanthi, Snahy, Vinitha and Basmati

Definition :

snahysaraf25_ece2 — 2025-09-15 18:14:13 UTC

The Charity Model of Disability views persons with disabilities (PWDs) as helpless or unfortunate individuals who need pity and care from others. It assumes that PWDs cannot live independently and need special help, services, or facilities because of their impairments.

Key Features or examples of the Model:

snahysaraf25_ece2 — 2025-09-15 18:21:36 UTC

Victim mindset: PWDs are seen as victims of their condition and are portrayed as sad, weak, or dependent.

Separate care facilities: PWDs are often placed in special institutions or environments apart from others because it is assumed they cannot manage on their own.

Real-life Implication in Early Childhood Education in India:

snahysaraf25_ece2 — 2025-09-15 18:26:33 UTC

In many schools, children with disabilities are sometimes placed in separate classrooms or special schools instead of being included in regular classrooms. Teachers and parents may believe that these children cannot keep up with others or need constant support. This limits their chances to interact with peers, learn from shared activities, and develop self-confidence.

We feel this approach, although well-intentioned, often restricts the abilities and potential of children with disabilities. Inclusive education, where all children learn together with appropriate support, can empower them and create a more accepting society.

Application in real-world contexts

snahysaraf25_ece2 — 2025-09-15 18:30:44 UTC

This video by Save the Children India discusses the challenges faced by children with disabilities in accessing education. It highlights the efforts of nonprofits to provide education to marginalized communities, often through specialized institutions, reflecting the Charity Model's approach.

https://youtu.be/kLyDFolQQms?si=CHwq0c6VoUdFXrCN

Group members:

2025-09-16 11:21:57 UTC

Aakriti, Neetu, Jinal, Tuba, Pratibha, Sweta

Definition and Features:

2025-09-16 11:23:14 UTC

The medical model defines disability as a biological condition which is atypical or different from what constitutes “normal”. The atypical or different characteristic could be a physical aspect or neurological/cognitive aspect that is identified as an impairment. Therefore, the medical model views disability as a form of physical impairment.

A key feature is that this model is incomplete on its own, as it does not acknowledge the role of social factors in constituting disabilities as a consequence of impairment.

It focusses on medical solutions/support in the form of rehabilitation programs to give people access to opportunities that they may be disadvantaged by.