Besides curb cuts, there are many examples of universal design in engineering. Choose an example of universal design in engineering and explain how it can be used as inspiration for a learning design.
Design is one of the most essential aspects of Engineering; and is the part I am most passionate about. To me, being able to design and then create something to solve a problem and help people encouraged me to go into the field. I first heard of the curb cuts from the excellent podcast “99 Percent Invisible.” And one of the things that this podcast does is inspire you to look for the 99% percent invisible designs that appear in your daily life. Another example of universal design, very adjacent to curb cuts, are the design decisions made for those with vision impairments. Next time you are about to cross the street, pay attention to all the things you don’t just see, and you’ll notice dozens of design decisions that make life for these people a little safer. One example is the noises made at a controlled intersection. Most modern controlled intersections use noise to indicate that a street is safe to cross and in which direction. Additionally, when someone crosses a street, there are also tactile markers on the ground, meant to be distinctly felt with a cane. These changes help make crossing the street a little safer for everyone. There is still a lot of work to make the road completely safe, but it’s improving all the time. This progress and innovation to solve these problems also inspires ideas on how the classroom can be made more accessible and interactive for those who have impaired vision. One way could be using physical models over visual pictures on a slide show. For example, take an average chemistry class, physical models of molecules could make grasping their structure much easier to understand for those who cannot see the diagrams. Even for those who can see, diagrams of molecules aren’t entirely intuitive, and this is another case where designing for inclusivity could help everyone understand the topic a little better.
Sources:
99% Invisible. (2021, April 29). Curb cuts. 99% Invisible. https://99percentinvisible.org/episode/curb-cuts/
I once came across the 99% Invisible podcast as well and thought its name is so clever. A remarkable design, I agree, is one that seamlessly integrates into people’s lives, making everything more convenient.
Speaking of incorporating more physical models in classrooms, I recall hearing a suggestion about the potential of 3D printers to work wonders in this regard. However, the issue that comes to mind immediately is the cost associated with making physical models, considering that the online approach has been favoured as a cost-effective solution for accessing a wider range of resources. It seems there will always be a need to strike a balance between cost and value in any situation anyway. Hopefully we can recognize and factor in the significant value of making education more accessible as an investment.
Hi Caelum, you have a very interesting idea. I really enjoyed reading your article on the use of visuals in Universal Design and its application to learning design. It’s fascinating how engineers use visuals like traffic signs and warning labels to communicate important information in a universal and inclusive way. I completely agree that incorporating visuals into the classroom enhances understanding and engagement for all students, not just those with different learning needs. The examples you provide, such as using pictures and diagrams in science experiments, or incorporating visuals from popular shows or movies, are excellent ways to make learning more accessible and resonant. Taken together, your insights highlight the power of visuals in creating an inclusive learning environment. well done!
Hi Caelum, Please ignore the post I made above because I post at wrong place, here is right one, apology.
I found your observations of design decisions made for the visually impaired to be insightful. The use of acoustic signals and tactile markers at controlled intersections is a good example of universal design in engineering. Not only does it improve the safety of the visually impaired, but it benefits everyone by providing clear instructions and guidance. Taking inspiration from this, incorporating physical models into the classroom, especially in subjects such as chemistry, can improve comprehension for visually impaired students and enhance comprehension for all learners. Inclusive design can create a more accessible and engaging learning environment that benefits the entire classroom community. well done!
Hi Caelum, I really enjoyed reading your blog post and found curb cuts to be an interesting and amazing way to be more inclusive of the people around us. Before reading your post, I did not know about curb cuts and learned something new. Taking the time to reflect upon our own identities and learn more about the world around us, is an amazing way to support others and help the people around us grow. I am a strong believer in innovation and believe that we are making strides to be more inclusive of the people close to us. Some examples of this are universities providing Accessible Learning solutions, events providing questionnaires asking for accessibility needs and websites providing more education about people with disabilities, Sharing knowledge with others and being open-minded about new perspectives can act as a catalyst to a more accessible world.
Hi Caelum! I just wanted to say that your post on universal design in engineering was really insightful. Thank you so much for sharing the podcast with the class and highlighting those real-life examples that we might not have even noticed otherwise!? It’s incredible how much effort and thought goes into the things we use and see every day. Another example is the typography used in books or magazines. The size, spacing, and style of the text are all carefully chosen to create an enjoyable reading experience. These unnoticed designs may seem insignificant, but they enhance our daily lives.