ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the use of Reuven Feuerstein’s ideas in the teaching of real-life problem-solving, including self-advocacy, skills. It focuses on the application of Feuerstein’s theory and methodology to the needs of young people within a unique New Zealand context – the then-named Auckland Sheltered Workshop and Training Centres. In dealing with their everyday lives, young people with disabilities need to exercise self-advocacy skills. A fundamental principle of the New Zealand Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act of 1988 is that people with disabilities should be encouraged to exercise their rights, and in particular decision-making and self-advocacy. The skills that formed the content of the assessment and training were chosen to meet the decision-making and self-advocacy needs experienced by the young people in both the workshop setting and the wider community. The selection was based on findings from the extensive empirical work of the late Professor Jack Tizard, an eminent New Zealander.
