How do we see young people?

 ZORA: Thoughts . . . 

• Interesting observations and how the experience of Zora is written.
• As an observer, how much involvement or lack of involvement was practiced in moments that could allow for intervention?
• As a participant, how comfortable was Zora? How informed was Zora on the purpose of this research? Having someone there to observe you for long hours were there any attachment implications developed?
• Zora's role of "entertainer" felt sad to read. Since she was described to already be different from the social norm and experienced separation and loneliness. Zora's desire for social acceptance was felt in the writing. 
• Disruptive behavior seems to have a cause & effect: "It seems that the more she feels left out and invisible, the more she engages in behavior that actively draws the attention of others" (p.17).
• "-working hard on making the children acceptable so they can be accepted" (p.22). This was an interesting statement by Mrs. Beverly. I had to ponder this thought for a while. I believe it is a sentiment with good intention and it just sounds bad. I try to see if Mrs. Beverly is challenged with knowing that the "real" world doesn't welcome the "unrestricted" or the "challengers" especially as Zora moves forward to further grades and eventually the working field. And Mrs. Beverly pushes for training to be acceptable, despite desiring versatility in how to shape the children's learning experience.

• Overall, interesting and good chapter read.

Crip Camp: Thoughts . . . 

• I am impressed by the fact alone that such experience has been documented the way it was. The footage on the camp was raw and true to the experience from the campers.
• In the beginning it was sad to hear James's share what his dad told him due to his disability; that he would need to be outgoing. This remark implies James would have to make-up for his disability with his personality.
• The inception of a well-intended camp with the purpose of freedom runed by counselors with no experience.
• 70s experience was definitely a different time
• A lot of Larry Olsen shirtless
• To hear the campers' thoughts and express their dislike in treatment was insightful. You can feel the sense of belonging and liberty felt at the camp. So much so that even contracting an STD was an achievement for some.
• To think this civil rights movement was about 35 years ago which is not a long time. 35 years ago, those with a disability were denied or limited access to an education. I find that mind blowing.
• Overall, I enjoyed the documentary. Great insight to how young people with disability were perceived and how the young people wanted to be perceived.