In the world of education we see a growing desire among educators to presume competence in their students. What does “presume competence” mean exactly? Here are some ways to explain it.
- Assume the student has the ability to understand and learn even if the behavior or communication style seems different – then, actively tease out those abilities.
- Focus on capabilities, not limitations
- Prioritize what a person can do rather than assuming they are incapable.
- Approaching the student with the expectation that they are capable of achieving things, and should have the opportunity to try with support and accommodations.
- Put aside making assumptions about the student’s limitations.
- Reflect a genuine belief in the child’s capabilities.
In ministry to all, and as we also have special focus on kids and adults coming to church with obvious and hidden disabilities, we have the same opportunity!
We realize that volunteers in a church setting come from every background, bring predisposed thought processes, and have varied personal experiences that play into emotional reactions. This can make the desire to create an atmosphere where we “presume competence” a bit of a challenge – but that challenge is not insurmountable.
As leaders, we can be the example as we learn and implement presuming competence. Here are some things to consider:
Here are some action steps to take because we want to remove barriers that prevent children/adults with disabilities from being the integral part of our church body that God intended for them:
Speak on an appropriate level for their age. One article we read mentioned how an adult with cerebral palsy was constantly being approached by people and spoken to like a child. These well-meaning people assumed inability because the person with CP needed a communication assistive device to speak. When he was finally given the opportunity to communicate, he told stories of being put with much younger children as he was growing up in classroom settings where things he already knew a thousand times over were being taught. It turned out that this man is academically gifted and has started a graduate program in college.
Give the person time to respond. We are in such a hurry to continue the conversation or keep the agenda moving that we miss out on coaching that child or adult to bring their input to the table. Sometimes that means providing another way for them to communicate like picture cards or a communication device, believing they can respond.
Speak directly to the person with the disability or the communication struggle. Even if a caregiver is with the individual, speak directly to them – not the caregiver. Keep your eyes on the individual – not the caregiver – until it is appropriate to continue the conversation directly with the caregiver.
Give opportunity for everyone to contribute in group discussion – whoever desires to do so. The person with a physical, communication, or intellectual disability often brings amazing value to the discussion when given the chance.
Provide assistance, accommodation, supplies, and materials to give opportunity for the competence to surface.
For example:
- Present materials/curriculum, etc. in several forms: large print, audio recordings, digital text.
- Provide written instructions along with verbal communication for the hearing impaired.
- Ask the person’s preferred communication style.
Promote independence: Encourage self-reliance and decision-making whenever possible with reassurance.
Some real life ways ministry leaders are implementing presumed competence:
I always talk to them like they can understand. If they do not and I need to repeat or change the way I said something I do. If I know a student and know they need me to break it down I will do that right away. But even if I am aware they will not understand what I say I always still use their name, explain what’s going on/what I am doing, ask questions ect and engage with them as much as they want me to… AM
Treat people with dignity. That is the first and most important thing. But always engage and ask the person what is best and talk with caregivers constantly. SB
I would encourage one to speak to everyone age appropriately and respectfully. So build relationships at every step, and seek to understand how each person in your class learns best. (intake form or interview questions, allowing time for questions during instruction, etc.) SJ
I’ll introduce the concept we’re going to talk about and ask if anyone in the group can explain to the rest of us. That way peers often explain unfamiliar terms or ideas, rather than it always being me.
If there’s a complicated word/term, I’ll break it down into simpler terms until at least someone is familiar with it and then they explain.
If the group culture is that we’re all always learning together, then people are comfortable to ask whatever questions they need, and offer whatever knowledge they have. JD
To speak to every person as if they understand you, whether they can speak words or not. AR
And directly from an amazing adult living with disabilities:
Don’t make assumptions about a person’s intelligence and/or abilities regardless of how they present. HC
In conclusion, as we strive to presume competence and play it out in ministry, let’s remember these things:
- Prioritize what a person CAN DO
- Do not automatically assume a person is not capable
- Be an active listener
- Be curious about how to adapt communication strategies
- Be willing to provide extra time
- Look for capabilities
Taking the time to encourage participation, growth, and learning in each individual, promotes respect and dignity. This is building community. This is Christ followers being like Christ. This is the body of Christ at its best.
Much love,
Tom & Julie Meekins
CONNECT WITH US:
We invite you to connect with Tom, Julie, and Amy through:
Email: champions4parents@gmail.com
Phone: 410-746-9010 (Voice or Text)
Facebook: facebook.com/Champions4Parents
Don’t forget our website: Champions4Parents.com
And check out Amy’s websites at
AmyChristineMeekins.com
Amystories.wixsite.com/heartrecharge
If you would like to support us financially as we provide love and support to Parents and Caregivers as well as Ministry Folks who serve families impacted by disability, we invite you to our donor page on our website: Champions4Parents.com/giving
