Disability models are crucial in understanding and addressing disability related issues and supporting people with special needs. The medical model, which views disability as a medical condition that can be treated or solved, is the oldest and most widely used disability model in most European countries, including Latvia. Health is considered the norm or ideal to strive for. The Latvian special education system still partly operates with a medical model approach, although significant steps have been taken towards a social model approach, which views disability as a social deficiency created by society.
The author of this research conducted a historical literature review of the Latvian pedagogical-medical commissions, which decide whether a special education program is needed for a child, to classify their approach and identify necessary first actions for a shift to the social model approach.
This article can be significant for other countries that are currently transitioning towards a more inclusive education system as it provides valuable insights for policy makers in other countries and helps raise awareness about the benefits of the social model of pedagogy.

Authors:
Andra Rektina, University of Latvia, Latvia

About the Presenter(s)
Ms Andra Rektina is a University Doctoral Student at University of Latvia in Latvia

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