Methodological Considerations

The completion of this book was not reliant on one single method; rather, it utilized the Q-Squared methodology, combining various research techniques to provide a holistic perspective on the subject matter. We initially conducted detailed land use surveys, with a specific emphasis on the various types of land uses and their incorporation of individuals with disabilities. This stage allowed us to assess the current landscape of disability inclusion in urban settings. Furthermore, key informant interviews were conducted to gain valuable insights into the built environment and disability planning practices across different cities in South Africa. These interviews were instrumental in providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities present in the urban infrastructure with regards to disability inclusion. Moreover, the research made effective use of national survey data available in South Africa to identify and map out the extent of vulnerabilities faced by individuals with disabilities in the country. This quantitative aspect of our study provided valuable insights into the socioeconomic factors influencing the well-being of this marginalized group. In addition, the book extensively reviewed a range of existing policies and literature, at both a local and an international level, to explore best practices and approaches to the inclusion of individuals living with disabilities. By contextualizing our findings within the broader policy framework, we were able to extrapolate key recommendations for enhancing disability inclusion measures in urban planning.