Medical model versus Social model of disability

Medical Model problem

Social Model Solution

Difficulty climbing steps or inaccessible lecture theatres

Ramps and banisters in all theatres.

Ensuring wheelchair space is planned into lecture theatre design

Difficulty opening heavy swinging fire doors

Ensuring that swinging doors automatically open and close

Examination papers are exclusively provided in print, meaning some students cannot read their papers

Examination papers are available in a format accessible for visually impaired and dyslexic students

Hearing impaired students struggle to follow the content of a lecture

Hearing impaired students have access to lecture notes; hearing loops are available in every lecture room

Some field trips involve arduous physical activity

A plan exists for participation of students whose energy is limited by a condition, such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome