- This activity provides an out-of-class, experiential learning opportunity which offers students multiple perspectives and a broader context for thinking about disability issues and an opportunity to reflect on their own beliefs, values and perspectives in relation to those with disabilities. Additionally, students develop a better appreciation for what the term disability means and how it is applied in our culture.
| Instructor Prep. Time | Student In-Class Time | Student Out-of-Class Time |
| Approximately 30 minutes | None | 4 hours |
- Wheelchair or
- Blindfold
Step-by-Step Procedure:
- Discuss the assignment in the beginning of the semester so students have time to find equipment and consider where and how they will complete the assignment. Consider having wheelchairs available for students although many students may check out chairs at a shopping mall.
- Create a reflective writing assignment for students to discuss their experience.
- Introduce the assignment mid-way through the semester after considerable discussion has occurred regarding the concept of "disability" as compared to ability.
- Students are required to spend four hours either in a wheelchair or blindfolded experiencing the challenges that individuals with disability encounter. The students must visit two different settings in the four hour period. Students must understand that the four hours are consecutive therefore they must be prepared to spend the entire time in a wheelchair or without sight. Let students know if they choose to be blindfolded they will need a partner to help them.
- Encourage students to not modify their day, but to try things they would typically do, or pursue an activity that is familiar to them in a different way. Try to not limit their agenda but also discourage students from going to classes and sitting or taking the equipment to their home and sitting.
- Assign the reflective writing piece, emphasizing the requirement of an in-depth analysis of their experience.
- Collect and evaluate student reflections.
Suggestions for Use:
- This activity is good to use in engineering or education courses. Students must either have access to equipment or the instructor must be wiling to modify the assignment.
