Definitions

It is important that we present the definitions and descriptions of literacy and disabilities, which reflect the values intrinsic in this guide and the LaDS project. These values align with a human rights model of disabilities and adult learning principles, which honour respect, dignity, inclusion, and independence.

Defining Literacy

"The ability to understand and use printed information in daily activities, at home, at work and in the community to achieve one's goals, and to develop one's knowledge and potential"

"To build a society that values inclusion it is important to challenge the assumption that literacy is only reading and writing on paper. There are multiple literacies and multiple ways of communicating including American Sign Language, Braille, technologies, gestures and sounds."

Defining Disabilities

"The disability rights model of disability presumes that all people have the same rights, regardless of disability. Disability is seen as a product of discrimination and inequality in social, economic and political life. The focus is on broad systemic factors that enable or restrict people from participating as equals in societies."

"A disability is not a characteristic of a person but a relationship between the person and environment. A disability is relative in this sense. This is important because it places the responsibility on the environment rather than on the person."