Disability Classifications and Related Experiences

Consider perspectives on disability and understanding disability as identity;  

Compare and contrast the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) with the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD) and other disability classification systems; 

Understanding of developmental milestones and early intervention systems; and 

Understanding of disability terminology, including the relation between medical descriptors and common language in a community/support context.  

Consider the contextual factors informing diagnostic criteria;  

Explore limitations and barriers in accessing diagnostic support; and 

Consider the influence of intersecting identities in relation to diagnostic criteria. 

Explore the diagnostic criteria and related experiences of various disability labels, including ASD, mental illness, and a variety of other disabilities, such as Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, FASD, etc; individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities;

Consider stories of lived experience of those with a disability label;  

Investigate the potential developmental trajectory of those living with a disability; 

Identify common concurrent disorders that may accompany a disability, such as Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Mood Disorders, etc. 

Explore current research related to etiology, characteristics and context specific to ASD, mental illness, and a variety of other disabilities, such as Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, FASD, etc. 

Supporting self-determination, agency, (your role is to support); and 

Critically examine how learner characteristics intersect with learning strategies and supports to impact long term outcomes. 

Describe the range of support available for those living with ASD, mental illness, and a variety of other disabilities, such as Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, FASD, etc.;

Investigate the eligibility and process for accessing support funding for a variety of disability labels;  

Explore support options available to families, caregivers, and those close to individuals living with a variety of disabilities;  

Explore issues of self-advocacy and self-determination in accessing support;  

Investigate the ethical implications and questions surrounding relevant issues, such as modes of treatment and support, genetic testing, medical assistance in dying, etc.; and 

Investigate the process for voluntary and involuntary treatments under the Mental Health Act.