Professor Dr. Madeline Burghardt

Biography

Madeline Burghardt is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Manitoba’s College of Rehabilitation Sciences. Her research focuses on the lived experiences of disability, particularly the systemic historical oppression faced by disabled individuals. Burghardt's work involves examining the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities and their families, especially those who are survivors of total institutions impacted by ableism. Her doctoral research highlighted the experiences of institutional survivors, contributing to the awareness and understanding of institutional survivorship in Canada. She has conducted collaborative participatory research and arts-based projects, co-developing workshops that teach the history of institutionalization. Burghardt has previously worked with Canadian thalidomide survivors, focusing on their experiences in a society that often marginalizes them. Her research methodologies employ qualitative narrative approaches and participatory-led strategies, intending to communicate findings in alternative modalities. Burghardt's research is aimed at advocating for inclusive educational and healthcare practices, collaborating with various research affiliations to challenge the narratives perpetuated by ableist ideologies.

Research Interests

Experience