a. Considering access and equity, do you think the problem lies with the person in the wheelchair or the environment the person is in? Explain your answer.

The problem lies more with the environment the person is in rather than the person in the wheelchair. This is based on the social model of disability, which argues that disability is caused by the way society is organized, rather than by a person's impairment or difference.

Access and equity are about ensuring everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, has equal access to all aspects of life, such as buildings, transportation, and social activities. If a person in a wheelchair is unable to access a building because there are only stairs, the problem is not the person's inability to walk, but the lack of a ramp or elevator that would allow them to enter the building.

Therefore, it is the responsibility of society to ensure that environments are designed and built in a way that is accessible to all, taking into account the diverse needs of different individuals. This includes not only physical access, but also access to information, communication, and other services.

In conclusion, the problem lies not with the person in the wheelchair, but with the environment that has not been designed or adapted to meet their needs.