Ableism is a deeply ingrained prejudice that marginalizes and discriminates against individuals with disabilities. As course developers, it is essential to develop training programs that raise awareness and promote inclusivity. By understanding the different types of ableism, we can design engaging and effective training modules that empower learners to challenge and overcome these biases. In this infographic, we will explore the various forms of ableism that should be covered in your training.

1. Exploring the
types of ableism
Ableism is a deeply ingrained prejudice that marginalizes and
discriminates against individuals with disabilities. As an
instructional designer, it is essential to develop training
programs that raise awareness and promote inclusivity. By
understanding the different types of ableism, we can design
engaging and effective training modules that empower
learners to challenge and overcome these biases. In this
infographic, we will explore the various forms of ableism that
should be covered in your training.

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Attitudinal ableism
Attitudinal ableism encompasses biased beliefs,
stereotypes, and negative attitudes toward people
with disabilities. It involves making assumptions
about an individual's capabilities, intelligence, or
worth based solely on their disability. Training
should address the importance of recognizing and
challenging these harmful attitudes, encouraging
empathy, and fostering a positive mindset.
Examples of attitudinal ableism:
● Assuming that individuals with disabilities are not capable of
performing certain tasks or jobs
● Using derogatory language or slurs when referring to people
with disabilities
● Believing that individuals with disabilities are burdens on
society rather than recognizing their unique strengths and
contributions

3. Environmental ableism
Environmental ableism refers to physical and social
environments that exclude or limit access for
individuals with disabilities. This includes
architectural barriers, lack of assistive technology,
or inaccessible digital content. Training modules
should emphasize the significance of creating
inclusive environments, promoting universal design
principles, and ensuring equal opportunities for all
learners.
Examples of environmental ableism:
● Inaccessible buildings or public spaces without ramps or elevators that make
it difficult for individuals with mobility impairments to access them
● Websites or digital content not designed with accessibility features such as
descriptive section headings or alternative text for images
● Lack of appropriate accommodations in educational or corporate institutions
such as not providing sign language interpreters or inaccessible learning
materials

4. Communication ableism
Communication ableism revolves around language,
interactions, and the way society communicates with
individuals with disabilities. It involves the use of
derogatory language, offensive slurs, or assumptions about
communication abilities. Training should emphasize
respectful language use, the importance of active listening,
and effective communication strategies that consider
diverse needs.
Examples of communication ableism:
● Interrupting or talking over someone with a speech impairment
because their communication is slower or different
● Ignoring the input or opinions of individuals with disabilities
during discussions or decision-making processes
● Using condescending or infantilizing tones when communicating
with individuals with disabilities

5. Institutional ableism
Institutional ableism refers to discriminatory policies,
practices, and structures within organizations or
systems that perpetuate inequality and hinder the
inclusion of people with disabilities. Training programs
should raise awareness about the impact of institutional
ableism, encourage the development of inclusive
policies and procedures, and promote equal
opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Examples of institutional ableism:
● Employment practices that discriminate against hiring
individuals with disabilities such as requiring unnecessary
medical tests or failing to provide reasonable
accommodations
● Educational institutions that do not provide appropriate
support or resources for students with disabilities
● Health insurance policies that limit coverage for necessary
treatments or therapies for individuals with disabilities

6. Systemic ableism Systemic ableism refers to the broader societal structures
and attitudes that perpetuate discrimination against people
with disabilities. It encompasses unequal access to education,
healthcare, employment, and other essential services. Training
should explore the root causes of systemic ableism, challenge
societal norms, and empower participants to advocate for
systemic change.
Examples of systemic ableism:
● Limited accessibility in public transportation such as
lack of wheelchair ramps or insufficient accessible
seating
● Inadequate healthcare services for individuals with
disabilities, resulting in disparities in receiving
necessary medical care
● Stereotyping individuals with disabilities in media and
entertainment, perpetuating harmful biases and
misconceptions

7. Microaggressions
Communication ableism revolves around language,
interactions, and the way society communicates with
individuals with disabilities. It involves the use of
derogatory language, offensive slurs, or assumptions about
communication abilities. Training should emphasize
respectful language use, the importance of active listening,
and effective communication strategies that consider
diverse needs.
Examples of microaggressions:
● Asking someone with an invisible disability to prove their disability
or constantly questioning the legitimacy of their condition
● Offering unsolicited advice or suggestions on how someone with a
disability should manage their condition
● Complimenting individuals with disabilities for simply completing
everyday tasks, as if their accomplishments are extraordinary solely
because of their disability

8. By addressing these types of ableism in your training,
you can create a more effective and engaging learning
experience that encourages participants to challenge
their biases and create inclusive environments.
Remember, fostering awareness, empathy, and
understanding is crucial in promoting a society where
individuals with disabilities are respected, valued, and
fully included. Let's work together to combat ableism and
create a more inclusive future for all.