This course explores disability through a practical, people-centered lens. Along the way, you’ll discover how ideas about disability have changed over time, learn how disability rights laws shape everyday life, and build skills for navigating challenges with flexible thinking and creative problem-solving. You’ll also explore communication—how emotions, context, and different situations influence the way we connect with others. Through discussion, reflection, and real-world examples, you’ll strengthen your social awareness and learn what it means to be an ally and stand in solidarity with others.

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

Describe historical models of disability
Express how disability rights legislation impacts their lives
Apply flexible thinking and problem-solving strategies to achieve a positive outcome
Outline how different communication styles are needed for different situations
Explain how emotion impacts communication
Define context as it applies to social and situational awareness
Explain allyship and solidarity