EDS4804
ASSIGNMENT 6 2026
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 2026
,EDS4804 Assignment 6 2026
SECTION A: ASSISTING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES TO IDENTIFY THEIR
RIGHTS AND REPRESENT THEIR OWN NEEDS
Question A1
A rights-based approach to disability practice recognises a person with a disability as an
individual who possesses rights, rather than someone who is simply dependent on
charity, care or medical assistance. This approach is founded on principles such as
human dignity, equality, inclusion, participation, autonomy, respect and freedom from
discrimination. The practitioner therefore does not make assumptions about what is best
for the person. Instead, the person with a disability is involved in identifying barriers,
expressing preferences and making decisions about matters that affect their life.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)
supports this approach by recognising persons with disabilities as individuals who can
exercise their rights, make choices and participate in decisions concerning their lives
(United Nations, 2006).
Helping people understand their rights is an important part of empowerment. A person
is better able to speak up for themselves when they know what they are entitled to. For
example, a learner with a disability who understands their right to reasonable
accommodation and inclusive education can explain the assistance they need instead
of accepting unfair treatment or being excluded from learning opportunities. In South
Africa, the Constitution recognises equality and provides protection against unfair
discrimination, including discrimination based on disability (Republic of South Africa,
1996).
Rights awareness can therefore help persons with disabilities become more
independent and confident in expressing their needs. It also enables them to question
unfair practices and hold institutions, service providers and other responsible parties
ASSIGNMENT 6 2026
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 2026
,EDS4804 Assignment 6 2026
SECTION A: ASSISTING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES TO IDENTIFY THEIR
RIGHTS AND REPRESENT THEIR OWN NEEDS
Question A1
A rights-based approach to disability practice recognises a person with a disability as an
individual who possesses rights, rather than someone who is simply dependent on
charity, care or medical assistance. This approach is founded on principles such as
human dignity, equality, inclusion, participation, autonomy, respect and freedom from
discrimination. The practitioner therefore does not make assumptions about what is best
for the person. Instead, the person with a disability is involved in identifying barriers,
expressing preferences and making decisions about matters that affect their life.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)
supports this approach by recognising persons with disabilities as individuals who can
exercise their rights, make choices and participate in decisions concerning their lives
(United Nations, 2006).
Helping people understand their rights is an important part of empowerment. A person
is better able to speak up for themselves when they know what they are entitled to. For
example, a learner with a disability who understands their right to reasonable
accommodation and inclusive education can explain the assistance they need instead
of accepting unfair treatment or being excluded from learning opportunities. In South
Africa, the Constitution recognises equality and provides protection against unfair
discrimination, including discrimination based on disability (Republic of South Africa,
1996).
Rights awareness can therefore help persons with disabilities become more
independent and confident in expressing their needs. It also enables them to question
unfair practices and hold institutions, service providers and other responsible parties
