The Special Teacher
D.ED. IDD NOTES, INTRODUCTION TO DISABILITIES

4.1 Concept, need, importance and domains of early identification and intervention of disabilities and twice exceptional children;

4.2 Organising Cross Disability Early Intervention services;

4.3 Screening and assessments of disabilities and twice exceptional children;

4.4 Role of parents, community, ECEC and other stakeholders in early intervention as per RPD- 2016 and NEP 2020;

4.5 Models of early intervention-(home-based, centre-based, hospital-based, combination) with reference to transition from home to school;

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D.ED. IDD NOTES, INTRODUCTION TO DISABILITIES

3.1 Intellectual Disability;

3.2 Specific Learning Disabilities;

3.3 Autism Spectrum Disorder;

3.4 Mental Illness, Multiple Disabilities;

3.5 Chronic Neurological Conditions and Blood Disorders;

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D.ED. IDD NOTES, INTRODUCTION TO DISABILITIES

2.1 Locomotor Disability-Poliomyelitis, Cerebral Palsy/Muscular Dystrophy;

2.2 Visual Impairment-Blindness and Low Vision;

2.3 Hearing Impairment-Deafness and Hard of Hearing;

2.4 Speech and language Disorder;

2.5 Deaf-blindness and multiple disabilities;

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D.ED. IDD NOTES, INTRODUCTION TO DISABILITIES

1.1 Historical perspectives of Disability – National and International & Models of Disability;

Historical Perspectives of Disability – National and International

The journey of how disabilities have been perceived and addressed reflects significant changes across time and cultures. This evolution is influenced by social, cultural, and scientific developments globally. Below, we explore the International Perspectives followed by the National (Indian) Perspectives.


International Perspectives

1. Ancient Period:

  • Prehistoric Times: Archaeological evidence from ancient burials suggests that individuals with disabilities were cared for in their communities, showcasing empathy and social support.
  • Greek and Roman Civilizations:
    • In ancient Greece, physical perfection was idealized, and infants with visible disabilities were sometimes abandoned.
    • Despite this, intellectual disabilities and mental illnesses were explored by philosophers like Hippocrates, who viewed them as medical conditions rather than divine punishment.
  • Religious Influences: In many early societies, disabilities were associated with divine intervention or punishment. For example:
    • Judeo-Christian traditions often linked disabilities to moral failings but also emphasized charity and care.
    • In Chinese traditions, disabilities were sometimes seen as bad luck or imbalance in natural forces.

2. Medieval Period:

  • European Middle Ages:
    • Disability was often associated with superstition, with conditions like epilepsy considered demonic possessions.
    • However, Christian monasteries occasionally provided care, establishing early forms of asylums.
  • Islamic Golden Age:
    • Scholars like Al-Razi (Rhazes) and Ibn Sina (Avicenna) advanced medical knowledge, exploring conditions like paralysis and mental health issues.
    • Hospitals in Baghdad and Damascus treated people with disabilities with scientific approaches.
  • Feudal Societies: In many parts of the world, people with disabilities were marginalized and excluded from economic activities.

3. Modern Period (18th to 20th Century):

  • Industrial Revolution: The shift to mechanized labor reduced opportunities for individuals with disabilities, as factory work required physical strength and endurance.
  • Rise of Institutions:
    • The 19th century saw the establishment of schools and hospitals for the disabled. For instance, Louis Braille (1809–1852) developed the Braille system for the visually impaired.
    • Advocacy movements began taking shape, highlighting the abilities of individuals with disabilities.
  • Impact of Wars:
    • The two World Wars brought attention to disabilities as soldiers returned home with amputations, blindness, and mental health conditions like PTSD. This led to the establishment of rehabilitation centers and advancements in prosthetics.
  • Early Advocacy:
    • Prominent figures like Helen Keller became symbols of empowerment for individuals with disabilities, advocating for their education and social inclusion.

4. Contemporary Period (Post-20th Century):

  • Global Recognition:
    • The International Year of Disabled Persons (1981) and subsequent actions by the United Nations emphasized the need for inclusive policies and global cooperation.
    • The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2006 marked a significant step toward recognizing disability as a human rights issue.
  • Legal Reforms Worldwide:
    • The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 in the United States set a global precedent for accessibility and anti-discrimination laws.
    • Many countries adopted similar laws, focusing on inclusive education, employment opportunities, and accessibility in public spaces.

National (Indian) Perspectives

1. Ancient Period:

  • Vedic Era: Disabilities were often linked to the concept of karma, with belief in their roots in past life actions. However, the Vedas also promoted compassion, charity, and care for individuals with disabilities.
  • Ayurveda: The ancient medical system provided detailed descriptions of disabilities and treatments. Texts like the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita included remedies for physical and mental disabilities.
  • Cultural Attitudes: People with disabilities were often excluded from social rituals, reflecting the stigma of the era.

2. Medieval Period:

  • Bhakti Movement: During this period, saints and reformers preached equality and compassion, encouraging societal acceptance of people with disabilities.
  • Traditional Healing Practices: Disabilities were primarily treated through herbal remedies and spiritual rituals.
  • Limited Inclusion: Despite a few positive developments, disabilities were often seen as personal misfortunes and were stigmatized.

3. Modern Period (18th to 20th Century):

  • Colonial India:
    • British influence led to the establishment of institutions like the Calcutta School for the Blind (1897) and homes for individuals with leprosy.
    • However, widespread poverty and lack of awareness limited progress in addressing disability issues.
  • Indian Freedom Movement:
    • Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi advocated for the inclusion of marginalized groups, including individuals with disabilities.
    • Nationalist leaders emphasized self-reliance and dignity, laying the foundation for future reforms.

4. Contemporary Period (Post-Independence):

  • Constitutional Provisions:
    • The Indian Constitution guarantees equality and non-discrimination under Articles 14, 15, and 21, and reserves seats for persons with disabilities in education and employment under Article 41.
  • Legislation for Rights:
    • The Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights, and Full Participation) Act, 1995 was a landmark law.
    • The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 replaced it, expanding the definition of disability and ensuring better inclusion in education, employment, and public spaces.
  • National Initiatives:
    • Programs like the Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan) focus on creating accessible infrastructure and improving awareness about disabilities.

1.2 Concept, Meaning and Definition – Handicap, Impairment, Disability, activity limitation,habilitation
and Rehabilitation;

1.3 Definition, categories (Benchmark Disabilities) & the legal provisions for PWDs in India;

1.4 An overview of Causes, Prevention, prevalence & demographic profile of disability: National and
Global;

1.5 Concept, meaning and importance of Cross Disability Approach and interventions;

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