2016 TASH Conference

This session explores the idea of 'problematizing,' a design concept that describes the process of examining commonly accepted attitudes, beliefs, processes and structures for the purpose of critically evaluating their impact on human lives. In learning environment problematizing is a means to identify the barriers to learning that are so deeply embedded in our environment and belief systems that we have grown accustomed to them and take them for granted. These hidden problems create barriers for some people in certain contexts. Once they are uncovered the problem solving process can begin. Applied to inclusive education, this is the process that needs to occur in classrooms in order for them to be universally designed to meet all studentsŸ?? needs and to be truly inclusive. This session begins with a theoretical foundation of problematizing and habituation. Then, examples of solved problems for physical space of the classroom, materials, instruction, behavioral expectations, and social contexts will be shared. Last, time will be devoted to sharing new problems and creating solutions collaboratively. After this session, participants will be able to: 1. Define the concepts of habituation and problematizing; 2. Explain the application of these terms to the inclusive classroom environment; 3. Identify problems or barriers that arise for people with disabilities; and 4. Produce solutions to the barriers to create universally designed environments.