Course Code: DST101
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Synopsis

This course introduces students to the historical development of services and societal responses to persons with disabilities. It examines how cultural, social, and political contexts have shaped evolving understandings of disability, and explores the language and terminology used — recognising them as social constructs influenced by time and place. Students will critically engage with key frameworks including the medical, social, psychological, and rights-based models of disability. The course also investigates how different societies, including Singapore, have responded to disability through policies, institutional practices, and community-based approaches. Emphasis is placed on understanding disability not only as an individual condition, but also as a social experience shaped by power, identity, and inclusion.
Level: 1
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY REGULAR SEMESTER

Topics

  • Conceptions of Disabilities and Special Educational Needs
  • Identifying Disabilities and Special Educational Needs
  • Policies for Disabilities and Special Educational Needs
  • Disabilities and the Development of Learning
  • Socio-cultural perspectives of Disabilities and Special Educational Needs
  • The Evolution of Disabilities and Special Education as Service Provision
  • Special Needs Across the Lifespan
  • Disabilities and SEN in the Singapore Context
  • Comparative Review of Provisions for Disabilities and Special Educational Needs Across Countries
  • Issues in Disabilities Settings and Special Education (across the lifespan)
  • Disabilities Settings and Special Education and the caring services
  • Future Directions in Disability Inclusion and Services

Learning Outcome

  • Compare historical and cultural perspectives on disability and societal responses to persons with disabilities.
  • Summarise the historical development of disability support systems and shifting societal attitudes towards disability.
  • Examine key models of disability service provision in Singapore, including educational, community, and policy approaches.
  • Explain how different types of disabilities may impact developmental processes across the lifespan.
  • Evaluate the strengths and limitations of various support systems and service provisions for persons with disabilities.
  • Discuss key debates and controversies in the field of disability, including inclusion, labelling, and access to equitable services.
Part-time Programmes / CET Courses