Problem
Historical Perspective about People with Disabilities.
I. Compare and contrast the similarities and differences between eugenics and genetic counseling.
II. Briefly summarize cross-cultural perceptions towards children and adults with disabilities.
III. Globally, many societies have made improvements in how people with disabilities are treated and educated. On the one hand, we promote diversity and equality for all citizens; on the other hand we are bombarded with media advertisements for cosmetic surgery, how to lose weight, get rid of acne, flatten our stomachs to obtain a six-pack, replace or remove hair, whiten our teeth etc... The list on how to improve ourselves is endless. Put on your thinking cap and let's play devils advocate; Do you think that human beings are obsessed with creating the "perfect" human being? Explain why or why not. Additionally, do you believe that society place more value on people who are born with certain physical characteristics? Explain.
IV. Given that it may difficult for a "normal" person to feel physically attractive, healthy and desirable based on the media's constant messages for self-improvement- now imagine that you are a person with physical or cognitive disability; Would it be more or less challenging for you to feel like a valued member of society? Explain.
V. Based on your answer, as a future educator, what changes could you make in your classes to ensure that students with disabilities feel like valued members of society inside and outside of the classroom.
VI. Do you think that scientific advances in genetic research will improve how children with special needs are educated or will it reduce the number of children with special needs?