13.5: Introduction to Working across Abilities
What you’ll learn to do: Discuss the impact of disabilities in the workplace
So far in this module we have discussed cultural forms of diversity, yet in a work setting we are also exposed to individuals with varied skills, talents, and abilities. Another component of diversity in the workplace is the wide range of physical and mental abilities of people you may work with. A common misconception or view of people with disabilities focuses on what an individual may lack or cannot do. Characterizing people solely by their disabilities and perceiving them as inferior to the non-disabled can lead to social prejudice and discrimination, also known as ableism.
Our challenge in the area of disabilities is learning to transcend our perception of someone’s limitations, to adopt universal design thinking and practices in order to accommodate a range of abilities, and, thereby, extend the possibilities for both individual and collective business performance.
Contributors and Attributions
- Introduction to Working Across Abilities. Authored by : Nina Burokas. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution
- Disability Employment Awareness Month. Authored by : Office of Disability Employment Office. Located at : http://www.albany.marines.mil/Photos/igphoto/2001317125/ . License : Public Domain: No Known Copyright