To Enroll as a Disability Support Services Blackboard for faculty user, please follow:
1. Login to Bb
2. Click on the Community Tab
3. In the Organization Search Box
4. Type DSS and click GO
5. Once the DSS Faculty community site appears click on the Enroll button to the far right of the community site name
6. You will then have access to the community site
In recognition of National Disability Month, Disability Support Services would like to offer you some food for thought:
Language is continually evolving, including language related to people with disabilities. Using correct language is important, not to show “politically correctness” but to communicate effectively and with respect. What you say and write may enhance the dignity of people with disabilities or may inadvertently reflect stereotypes and negative attitudes.
Some words and phrases don’t recognize the broad range of capabilities of people with disabilities. They don’t need or want to be pitied, nor should they be labeled “courageous” or “special” because they accomplish daily activities or work. Also, people are sometimes concerned that they will say the wrong thing, so they say nothing at all – further segregating people with disabilities.
Put the person first. When referring to a person with a disability, say ?person with a disability? rather than ?disabled person.? Say ?people with disabilities? rather than ?the disabled.? For specific disabilities, use correct terminology, such as ?person who has cerebral palsy? or ?person with a learning disability.? Note that it is preferable to say ?wheelchair user? rather than ?confined to a wheelchair? or ?wheelchair bound.? A wheelchair enables the person to get around and participate in the community, so it is more liberating than confining. Mention a disability only when it is relevant to the discussion. Remember, too, that most disabilities are invisible, so always use sensitive language.
“Handicap” and “disability” are not synonyms. Disability is a generic term for a condition that may affect a person’s mobility, hearing, vision, speech, or cognitive abilities. Handicap describes a barrier that is environmental or attitudinal, whether it is an inaccessible building, information not being available in Braille, or a negative stereotype.
For more information, or to register with our program, contact Disability Support Services at 410-704-2638.
