Disabling Learning Environments: Challenging Ableism in Your Teaching Practices


In the post-secondary context, disability is defined through the needs of an individual and resolved by providing accommodations. However, this approach overlooks the role of instructors and how their choices create learning environments – either accessible or inaccessible. This workshop recording challenges participants to think about how learning environments are disabling. Through reflecting on assumptions about successful learners, instructors can challenge ableism in their teaching practice.

By the end of this session, participants will

  • Differentiate between medical and social models of disability
  • Recognize how instructional practices can create barriers to learners
  • Reflect on personal beliefs about learner qualities
  • Challenge instructional practices based on these assumed learner qualities

Facilitator: Dr. Brenda McDermott, PhD

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