Geographies of Disability: On the Potential of Mixed Methods

This chapter traces the trajectory of disability geography to consider the potential of mixing quantitative and qualitative approaches for generating new geographic insights into the everyday experiences of disabled individuals. We begin with an overview of disability concepts and definitions, followed by a summary of major historical and intellectual developments in disability geography. Then, we explore the possibilities for mixing methods, using illustrative studies on: the socio-spatial mobilities of individuals living with visual impairment, the socio-spatial educational environments of young pupils with disabilities, and the socio-spatial practice of critical accessibility mapping. The chapter ends with reflections on researcher positionality and directions for future scholarship