HIST 3116A: History of Disability
Summer 2024
Instructor: Christine Chisholm
Dr. Maurice Mongeau with young Bernadette Bainbridge at the Rehabilitation Institute in Montreal. The image was part of an article discussing the ‘flying squad’ approach to helping mother’s cope with the news of having given birth to a child with disabilities. Source: Toronto Daily Star, March 26, 1966. Photographed by Len Sidaway.
Course Description:
This course will discuss how ideas of being “normal” and “disabled” have changed over time. Together, we will explore the evolving field of disability history, considering representations and understandings of disability across different cultural contexts. While global perspectives will be considered, a heavy focus will be placed on North American and, when applicable, Canadian history.
The course delves into the social constructions of disability, distinguishing between medical and cultural interpretations. Through case studies, students will examine lived experiences of individuals with disabilities, uncovering instances of discrimination, exclusion, and resistance. Material aspects of disability and relevant policies will also be addressed, alongside opportunities for engagement with public history initiatives.
This course will encourage students to explore the potential of Critical Disability Studies, as well as multi-disciplinary and intersectional approaches in historical analyzes.
By the end of this course, students will have learned to pose new questions about what it means to be human.
Class Format: Online – Asynchronous
There will be pre-recorded video lectures available for students to watch each week on their own schedule (CC available), as well as weekly discussion posts that need to be completed by certain dates each week within Brightspace. Students are expected to remain up to date with the deadlines and due dates provided by the instructor. Office hours will be available by appointment via video conference. Depending on demand, live sessions for Q&As can be made available (recording will be posted in Brightspace).
This course requires access to (high-speed) Internet and a computer.
Aims and Goals:
- Become familiar with the arguments, methods, theories and approaches of the disability history field.
- Understand disabilities as a social construct.
- Research and document the history of one particular aspect, topic, or time period in the history of disabilities.
- Engage with non-traditional historical sources and comparative studies.
Assessment:
Students will be graded on their informed participation in weekly discussion groups, discussion facilitation, written assignments, and a final exam.
Text:
All articles and book chapters assigned will be available via ARES and online. No purchases are required.
Questions? Please email me at: Christine.Chisholm@carleton.ca