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University of Winnipeg

Department of Sociology

50.1004/3-Section 761 - Intro. Disability Studies II

Course Instructor: Dr. Aileen Wight Felske
E- Mail: awightfelske@mtroyal.ab.ca

Course Description

This course introduces students to social change movements in society led by / with marginalized groups, primarily advocacy group for / of people with disabilities.

The concept of advocacy is explored in terms of self, family, and groups, in terms of broad societal attitudes, services systems, laws and policies. A historical review of social change for Canadians with a disability is given, with specific examples of critical issues, campaigns and events. The lessons learned are analyzed to support current advocacy groups understanding of the broad societal context, both nationally and internationally in which they work. The course incorporates both technical planning exercises, with ethical discussions, and outcome analysis. It will be of interest to persons with disabilities, people working in service delivery in the social and health sectors, and others interested in social change.

Text. Steinstra, D., Wight Felske, A., Making Equality. A history of advocacy in Canada for persons with disabilities. 2003. Captus Press, ON.

A variety of websites are linked in the course to provide additional reading.

Course Modules

Students will find details regarding topic modules learning objectives, text readings, assignments and evaluation criteria posted on the course website.

Course Evaluation

1. Student Website                                                                           5%     January 20th 2004
   Students must post their website by Jan 31st 2004 in order to receive course credit.
   
   
2. Portfolio (on - line postings, small assignments case study). 35%     Dates posted at site
   
   
3. Short (timed) on - line module quizzes                                      60%     Dates posted at site

Students are strongly encouraged to maintain course progress using posted dates as a course guide. No student can proceed to the next module without completion of its preceding quiz and assignments, and students must write the quiz within two weeks of its posting date. Exceptions to this pattern must be cleared with Dr Aileen Felske awightfelske@mtroyal.ab.ca

Services for Students with Disabilities

The University provides a variety of services for students with disabilities who require assistance or academic accommodations, including access to the Disability Resource Centre (DRC). The DRC has adaptive equipment and/or software for students to access.

Students with physical, learning, or other disabilities (including medical and psychiatric) are encouraged to make an appointment with the Coordinator of Disability Services (DS) at 786-9771. Medical documentation is required prior to providing appropriate academic accommodations for classrooms/labs and/or tests/exams.

Additional information regarding DS is available in the General Calendar (pp. 42-43) or on-line at the following link: http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/web/current/services/disability.shtml.

Course Withdrawal The FINAL DATE for course withdrawal without academic penalty is MARCH 5th 2004. Students will have had opportunities to complete 40% of the course (with grade) prior to this date.

Grading:

Please see the University of Winnipeg calendar, page 48, for an explanation of the grade-point system.

Students should also familiarize themselves with the sections of the University of Winnipeg Calendar on "Academic Misconduct" (p. 51-53) and "Appeals" (p. 53-55).