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Intersectional Networking Symposium-Professors: Inclusivity, Representation in Education
Contact
Cathy Beaton
Associate Professor
catherine.beaton@rit.edu
Elissa Weeden
Associate Professor
Yugo Iwamoto
Graduate Research Assistant
yi9686@rit.edu
INSPIRE
Inspiring collaboration of research for professors and researchers with disability/disabilities. Learn more
What Is Disability?
Disability is a condition that makes it difficult or limited for individuals to live their daily lives. While the Americans with Disabilities Act is exclusive in its definition, INSPIRE seeks to provide a broader scope. Disability can be officially defined as self-limiting conditions that may eventually resolve on their own, conditions that are difficult to document (such as chronic fatigue, lupus, arthritis, fibromyalgia, recurrent migraines, tinnitus, and chronic pain). Conditions such as pregnancy impact daily lives for a period of time, and may pose temporary challenges in one’s daily life. A current theme in the headlines is mental health and/or fatigue for faculty as they navigate different workplace shifts related to the post-Covid ‘new normal’. Below is our current working list of types of disability as defined by INSPIRE, along with resources for each of those categories. We welcome your feedback and inspire you to contribute to your fellow academics!
Types of Disability
Paid Family leave provides employees with job-protected time away from work with partial pay for eligible employees when they are absent from work due to bonding with a new child, providing care for a family member, or assisting a family member called to active military service. It is not for an employee's health condition. Learn More
A hearing disability refers to a reduced ability to hear sounds, ranging from mild hearing loss to complete deafness. It can affect one or both ears. Some individuals use American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate, while others may rely on hearing aids to regain some hearing ability. Learn more
It is a mental impairment that limits a person's ability to perform major life activities. It can also require special services. Some common mental health impairments include depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Learn More
It can include conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder(ADHD), and dyslexia. Neurodivergence is not a medical term but a more inclusive phrase to describe people with different brain functions. Learn More
Physical disability is the term that explains any physical limitations or disabilities that limit the bodily functions of individuals. Some of them acquired it through accident, injury, and post-surgery effects. Learn More
It is a medical condition or injury and you are not able to work short-term, such as pregnancy, surgery, or severe illness. Learn More
It is one of the major disabilities in the United States. Visual impairment makes it difficult to do everyday tasks, such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces. It is a permanent condition that cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or other treatments. Learn More
Areas INSPIRE Covers
Beyond the scope of disability, Faculty and staff may see some experiences they may encounter. Blow the fields are highlighted.
Gender and LGBTQ may cause discrimination, and those individuals with a disability may face a hard time having access. Studies show that women and girls with disabilities are twice as likely to experience gender-based violence compared to women and girls without disabilities. Learn More
Global researchers may encounter culture shock and be required to adjust to the new environment. Learn More
In consideration of disability based on ethnicity and race, the health and support differences among races are essential factors to consider. Learn More
Do you have an experience to share?
We are looking for your experience as a researcher with disability/disabilities. Please fill out the form