After successful completion of the course, students are able to...

…name core historical and current-day approaches to critical theory and applications thereof, particularly in the context of critical disability studies
…demonstrate sensitivity towards complex issues surrounding equity regarding disability as well as gender, class, race, and colonialism 
…analyse and discuss the potential effects and impacts of technological design around different notions of exclusion 
… formulate and argue for critical alternatives in technological design, specifically in the context of assistive technologies

…critically reflect on technological developments and current trends   
…evaluate and communicate trade-off's in the design and development of technology

In technological design, disability and disabled people play a role almost exclusively within a context of assistive technologies. Framed as support devices, these are intended to ‘help; disabled people to find workarounds for their disability in an environment dominated by bodily norms and assumptions. In this seminar, we will discuss different models of Dis/Ability and how they relate to technologically driven research. Students will engage with foundational work within Critical Disability Studies and Human-Computer Interaction and learn how to reflect respectfully and responsibly on bodily normativity in technology research. The seminar is highly interactive with opportunities for additional explorations according to students’ desires.

Successful completion of the course counts for 6 ECTS (together with the VO), relating to 150 hours of work. These are expected to be allocated as follows: 30h In-class attendance 90h Individual and Group Work 30h Final Essay (or alternative)   Individual and Group Work includes preparatory reading for the seminar, reflective blogging and preparation of seminar presentations as well as continuous development of a personal reference booklet.  

Students can propose individualised forms of assessment or write an essay to pass the class.