Griffith launches free online course to open up disability discussion

‘Realising Career Potential: Rethinking Disability’ is a free MOOC (Massive Online Open Course) now open for enrolment that enables learners to see how rehabilitation counsellors help people with disadvantage or disability realise their vocational potential.

Griffith University’s Rehabilitation Counselling and Case Management experts, Dr Vanette McLennan and Dr Christine Randall lead the global discussion on the benefits of enabling people with disadvantage or disability to participate fully in society.

“Unfortunately there are many misconceptions regarding what disability actually is and what the barriers are for people with disability in the workplace and in the community. Discrimination and stigmatisation are still huge barriers for people and through this course, we want to challenge the myths and assumptions that exist.

“People don’t realise how much workplaces and communities benefit when everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in our society. Too often, misconceptions about disability get in the way. Workplace attitudes, flexibility and technologies can make a real difference.

“It’s about raising awareness of the importance of participation for all,” says Dr McLennan.

“By looking at real-life case scenarios, including people with physical disabilities as well as those with less visible disabilities, we can help course participants to challenge assumptions and rethink what is possible for people with disability in their communities and workplaces.”

Available on FutureLearn, the social learning platform, ‘Realising Career Potential: Rethinking Disability’ will connect individuals from around the world to come together to discuss key issues in disability today. They will hear from Griffith University experts on how they can be part of a global movement to promote more equal access to community participation and meaningful employment for people with injury, disability and disadvantage.

The course is available to join from May 14 and takes around three hours per week to complete, though learners can complete the course at their own pace. The learning modules are in bite-sized chunks and available 24/7 to enable flexible study.

Dr McLennan added: “The course is designed for anyone concerned about disability, including health professionals, students and researchers, as well as people with disability. It’s also a great opportunity for people who want to explore the role of the Rehabilitation Counsellor in helping clients realise their career potential after injury or illness.

“We provide learners with the knowledge and skills to enable them to make a difference. Using a wide range of interactive learning methods such as videos and discussions, we explain the case for improved workplace and community participation and how everyone is able to contribute.”

The course ‘Realising Career Potential: Rethinking Disability’ is open for enrolment now and is due to begin 14 May. If you want to embrace diversity and rethink disability – why wouldn’t you?

As with most FutureLearn courses, the course can be taken for free or there is the option to upgrade to receive additional benefits.