Universal Design Principles
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following statements about Universal Design is true?

  • Universal Design considers the needs of everyone, regardless of age, size, ability or disability. (correct)
  • Universal Design aims to replace products targeted at specific markets.
  • Universal Design is only applicable to people with disabilities.
  • Universal Design is a list of specifications for accessible design.

    • Universal Design is a process and not an outcome.

    True

    Who can undertake Universal Design?

    Any designer

    Universal Design benefits not just older people and people with disabilities, but _________ as well.

    <p>everyone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What design principle focuses on the design being easy to understand and use, regardless of the user's experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level?

    <p>Principle 3: Simple and Intuitive Use</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Universal Design promotes as inclusive a design as possible.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Universal Design strives to improve the original design concept by making it more _______.

    <p>inclusive</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following design principles with their descriptions:

    <p>Principle 1: Body fit = Design contributes to health promotion, avoidance of disease, and protection from hazards. Principle 5: Wellness = Design respects and reinforces cultural values and the social and environmental context.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is positively impacted by Universal Design?

    <p>An aging population, active people, short people, little people, tall people, frail people, pregnant women, parents with children in strollers, children with aging parents, children, left-handed people, people who don't speak the local language, visitors to unfamiliar cities, people using a service animal, and people with all kinds of disabilities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the two strongest and most influential organizations in Universal Design today?

    <p>The Centre for Excellence in Universal Design (CEUD) and the Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDeA) at the University at Buffalo.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Universal Design is about adapting people to their environment.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the Seven Principles of Universal Design?

    <p>Flexibility in Use</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the fundamental need in understanding Universal Design?

    <p>Understanding a range of different disabilities and the impact that each has on an individual's ability to access the environment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Universal Design focuses on providing basic access to specific locations for individual disabilities only.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is human factors and ergonomics?

    <p>The practice of designing products, systems, or processes to take proper account of the interaction between them and the people who use them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is anthropometry?

    <p>The study of the dimensions and abilities of the human body.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Define 'Inclusion' according to the Cambridge Dictionary.

    <p>open to everyone; not limited to certain people; the idea that everyone should be able to use the same facilities, take part in the same activities, and enjoy the same experiences, including people who have a disability or other disadvantage</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the fundamental requirements for an inclusive environment?

    <p>Space and clearance, height of controls, slope and level change, surfaces and texture, visual contrast, illumination and lighting, force, shape, safety considerations, and consistency and predictability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Universal Design is defined as 'the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaption or specialized design' by ____________.

    <p>Ronald Mace</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some hazards related to flooring mentioned in the text?

    <p>slippery flooring, hazards for people with limited mobility or using mobility devices</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can language barriers in the built environment affect users?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Adaptations in the built environment should be tailored to the intended users of the space.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    People with strollers may need assistance getting down stairs if there is no ______________ available.

    <p>ramp or elevator</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What kind of field does the cable generate throughout the looped space?

    <p>magnetic field</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which devices can pick up the magnetic field generated by the cable? (Select all that apply)

    <p>Specialized hand-held hearing loop receivers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which settings can the specialized hand-held hearing loop receivers be used?

    <p>Retail</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Teletypewriters, also known as TTY, are a modern technology replacing video calling services like VRS.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a recommended method of providing information to individuals with memory-related conditions?

    <p>Enriching the environment with cues and key landmarks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    People with dementia rely more on unfamiliar images and objects for orientation and recognition within the built environment.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should designers consider to minimize anxiety or claustrophobia in physical spaces?

    <p>Dimensions and definition of areas within a physical space</p> Signup and view all the answers

    __ lighting should be provided to make a person's body language or facial expressions easier to see.

    <p>Good and even</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which materials are mentioned to absorb and dampen sound?

    <p>Carpets</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of finishes are suggested for large surfaces to accommodate people with sensory limitations?

    <p>Lightly patterned finishes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Excess vibrations in loud environments do not cause distractions for individuals with sensory limitations.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    To minimize glare, it is recommended to use non-reflective materials for __________.

    <p>flooring</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should rest or seating areas accommodate when not in use?

    <p>walker</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommendation regarding pathways for a person walking with a guide dog or companion?

    <p>Pathways should be wide enough to accommodate a person with a companion or guide dog.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can you maximize sightlines to improve awareness of surroundings?

    <p>Both a and b are correct</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Users of wheelchairs or scooters must be able to comfortably reach controls, doors, etc. without _____.

    <p>leaning</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is positively impacted by Universal Design?

    <p>People with disabilities and many others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Universal Design is about adapting the environment for people.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is anthropometry?

    <p>Anthropometry refers to the measurement of the human individual, involving the systematic measurement of physical properties of the human body.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    People adapt to their environment, or they modify their environment to better meet their __________.

    <p>needs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the Seven Principles of Universal Design?

    <p>Equitable Use, Flexibility in Use, Simple and Intuitive Use, Perceptible Information, Tolerance for Error, Low Physical Effort, Size and Space for Approach and Use</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which Principle of Universal Design focuses on providing the same means of use for all users, avoiding segregation or isolation?

    <p>Equitable Use</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Accessible design primarily focuses on meeting regulatory requirements and not considering the needs of people of all abilities.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Universal Design is defined as 'the design of products and environments to be usable by ___ people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design'.

    <p>all</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is Universal Design aimed at in the design process?

    <p>Considering the needs of the user</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Universal Design is synonymous with compliance with accessible design standards.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who benefits from Universal Design according to the text?

    <p>everyone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Universal Design aims to provide a design that takes into account physical, behavioral, and other factors affecting __________.

    <p>users</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the economic benefits of Universal Design with their descriptions:

    <p>Lower renovation costs = Reduces operating costs Improved physical accessibility = Dramatic increase in labour force participation and consumer spending Universal standards in retail = Cost less to operate over the long term</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the goal of a Universally Designed product?

    <p>process</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Principle 3 (Simple and Intuitive Use), what does the design aim to accommodate?

    <p>User's experience, knowledge, language skills, and concentration level</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Elevator flooring should be light colored to aid depth perception. (True/False)

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Universal signage is in ______ locations.

    <p>predictable</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the type of hardware with its ease of use:

    <p>Levered handsets and pull-style cupboard/closet hardware = Easy for anyone to use Doorknobs and cupboard/closet hardware that require turning or twisting = Difficult for people with limited flexibility or dexterity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the goal of Body fit according to the Eight Goals of Universal Design?

    <p>Design accommodates people with a wide range of body sizes, statures, and abilities or function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be considered when designing communication to make it easy to understand?

    <p>level of language, relevant diagrams, good lighting, minimal glare, minimizing stimuli</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What kind of environments should designers create for individuals sensitive to sensory inputs like noise and visual aspects?

    <p>Low stimulating environments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Designers should consider dimensions and definiton of areas in a physical space to prevent anxiety or claustrophobia. (True/False)

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Individuals with dementia rely on familiar __________ to orient and recognize features within the built environment.

    <p>images and objects</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some hazards related to flooring mentioned in the content?

    <p>Slippery flooring</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be hazardous for people who are blind or have low vision?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Communication and signage should be consistent in terms of height, aesthetics, language, icons/images, and placement.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    For a room intended for daycare or children's after-school activities, small chairs, lower sinks, and ______ and brightly coloured signage may be appropriate.

    <p>simply worded</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following sight-related adaptations to the built environment:

    <p>People with low vision = Colour contrast and illumination People who are blind = Tactile and acoustic cues</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some examples of assistive devices for people who are deaf or hard of hearing mentioned in the text?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a teletypewriter (TTY) used for?

    <p>Telecommunications device which allows people who are D/deaf or hard of hearing to talk to a hearing person over the telephone via text</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Acoustics are important for those who are hard of hearing, and for hearing aid users. Echoes and other noise reverberations should be minimized by the use of __________ and by thoughtful design of the structure of areas.

    <p>materials</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should seating areas accommodate when not in use?

    <p>Walker</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Is it recommended to provide wide pathways for better accessibility?

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    To improve sightlines in confined spaces, it is suggested to place mirrors on the back wall of __________.

    <p>elevators</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following accessibility recommendations with their correct descriptions:

    <p>Low height = Users of wheelchairs or scooters need access from a seated position. Comfortable reach = Provide counter heights that are comfortable for a range of statures/users. Limited reach = Users of wheelchairs or scooters must be able to comfortably reach controls, doors, etc. without leaning. Clearance/space for turning/U-turn = Allow for sufficient space to turn or change direction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of materials can be used to absorb and dampen sound?

    <p>carpets, curtains, ceiling tiles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a recommended approach to minimize visual 'noise' for individuals with sensory limitations?

    <p>Minimize visual patterns</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Good lighting/illumination is important to address difficulties in making out surroundings when they are too bright or too dark. (True/False)

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Loud environments can create distractions for people with different levels of hearing, including wearers of devices such as hearing aids or cochlear implants. It is recommended to minimize noise and excess __________.

    <p>vibrations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following techniques with their recommendations for individuals with sensory limitations:

    <p>Minimize sound reflection and reduce background noise = Absorb and dampen sound Use neutral colors and minimal patterns = Minimize visual 'noise' Provide visual representations of verbal announcements = Display content visually on a screen Install and maintain visual alert systems for fire alarms = Indicate fire alarm warnings visually</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Unit 4.1: Universal Design - Principles, Concepts, and Practices

    • This unit focuses on integrating Universal Design principles and standards when planning and executing a rating.
    • Students will learn about the principles of Universal Design, its concepts, and practices.

    A Brief History of Inclusion in the Built Environment

    • In 1944, Edmund "Ed" Desjardins identified basic access issues in public buildings.
    • In 1949, Ed co-founded the first freestanding rehabilitation clinic for people with spinal cord injuries in North America.
    • The clinic, G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre in Vancouver, is still in operation today.
    • Ed advocated for legislative change, resulting in Vancouver's first access-related bylaw in 1949.
    • The bylaw became the forerunner for the 1979 provincial standards and subsequent code reform in Canada.

    The Evolution of Universal Design

    • The US-based Barrier-Free Design movement began in the late 1940s.
    • The movement was driven by factors such as the large number of Second World War soldiers returning home with disabling injuries.
    • By the 1960s, equality of access to the environment had migrated into the civil rights movement.
    • In 1968, the International Symbol of Accessibility was adopted.
    • The 1970s saw the growth of the Independent Living Movement, advocating for making communities and housing accessible.
    • In the 1990s, omnibus legislation in the US (the ADA) and in Ireland and Australia drove a new awareness of the real needs of people with disabilities in the built environment.
    • The concept of Universal Design emerged, considering a broad range of individuals, not just those with disabilities.

    Definitions of Inclusive and Universal Design

    • Inclusive design is defined as "open to everyone; not limited to certain people" (Cambridge Dictionary).
    • Universal Design is defined as "the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design" (Ronald Mace, 1988).

    The Seven Principles of Universal Design

    • Principle 1: Equitable Use
      • Provides the same means of use for all users.
      • Avoids segregating, stigmatizing, or isolating any users.
    • Principle 2: Flexibility in Use
      • Provides choice in methods of use.
      • Accommodates right- or left-handed access and use.
    • Principle 3: Simple and Intuitive Use
      • Eliminates unnecessary complexity.
      • Is consistent with user expectations and intuition.
    • Principle 4: Perceptible Information
      • Uses different modes (pictorial, verbal, tactile) for redundant presentation of essential information.
      • Provides adequate contrast between essential information and its surroundings.
    • Principle 5: Tolerance for Error
      • Arranges elements to minimize hazards and errors.
      • Provides warnings of hazards and errors in a variety of sensory modes.
    • Principle 6: Low Physical Effort
      • Allows users to maintain a neutral body position.
      • Uses reasonable operating forces.
    • Principle 7: Size and Space for Approach and Use
      • Provides appropriate size and space for approach, reach, manipulation, and use, regardless of user's body size, posture, or mobility.### Universal Design Principles
    • Provides a clear line of sight to important elements for any seated or standing user
    • Makes reach to all components comfortable for any seated or standing user
    • Accommodates variations in hand size and grip size
    • Provides adequate space for the use of assistive devices or personal assistance

    Examples of Universal Design and Non-Universal Design

    • Parking spaces: adequate space for maneuvering around a vehicle vs. narrow parking spaces
    • Pathways: clear width with adequate space for passing and turning vs. narrow pathways
    • Washrooms: adequate turning radius allowance at urinals, within stalls, and behind sinks vs. inadequate space for wheelchairs

    The Eight Goals of Universal Design

      1. Body fit: design accommodates people with a wide range of body sizes, statures, and abilities or function
      1. Comfort: design ensures comfort for people with a wide range of body sizes, statures, and abilities or function
      1. Awareness: design ensures critical information is easily perceived
      1. Understanding: methods of operation and use are intuitive, clear, and unambiguous
      1. Wellness: design contributes to health promotion, avoidance of disease, and protection from hazards
      1. Social integration: design treats all groups of people with dignity and respect
      1. Personalization: design offers opportunities for choice and expression of individual preferences
      1. Contextual appropriateness: design respects and reinforces cultural values and the social and environmental context

    Ten Things to Know About Universal Design

      1. Universal Design strives to improve the original design concept by making it more inclusive
      1. Universally Designed products can have a high aesthetic value
      1. Universal Design is an approach to designing, not a design style or trend
      1. Universal Design does not aim to replace products targeted at specific markets
      1. Universal Design is not a synonym for compliance with accessible design standards
      1. Universal Design benefits more people than just older people and people with disabilities
      1. Universal Design can be undertaken by any designer, not just specialists
      1. Universal Design should be integrated throughout the design process
      1. Universal Design is not just about "one size fits all"
      1. A Universally Designed product is the goal: Universal Design is the process

    The Whole is Greater Than the Sum of Its Parts

    • Accessibility or usability can be affected by a range of factors, including medical injuries, unfamiliarity with a product or environment, lack of understanding, physical attributes, and more
    • Universal Design aims to provide a design that takes into account these physical, behavioral, and other factors

    What is Assistive Technology?

    • Assistive technology refers to add-on and/or support products that could make a formerly inaccessible environment more accessible

    Economic and Social Benefits of Building Inclusive Environments

    • Economic benefits include:
      • Anticipating the needs of users by having structural requirements for assistive devices already built into the infrastructure
      • Cost savings from operating a Universal Design built environment
      • Retail and commercial spaces that are welcoming to people with disabilities will enjoy benefits as the number of active people with disabilities increases
    • Social benefits include:
      • Reducing the need for retrofits and renovations, reducing construction materials dumped into landfills
      • Providing an exponentially increased number of housing options for people with disabilities, older adults, and seniors
      • Building and maintaining communities through inclusive design

    Beneficiaries of Universal Design

    • The beneficiaries of Universal Design include:
      • An aging population
      • Active people
      • Short people, little people
      • Tall people
      • Frail people
      • Pregnant women
      • Parents with children in strollers
      • Children with aging parents
      • Children
      • Left-handed people
      • People who don't speak the local language
      • Visitors to unfamiliar cities
      • People using a service animal
      • People with all kinds of disabilities### Aging in Place
    • Aging in place is not a new concept, but it's something that society has lost sight of.
    • People have different perspectives and needs, which can vary due to aspects like size, age, ability, and more.

    Human Factors and Ergonomics

    • Human factors and ergonomics (HF&E) consider the interaction between people and the products/systems they use.
    • HF&E aims to design products and systems that take into account the diversity of human characteristics and abilities.

    Anthropometrics

    • Anthropometry refers to the measurement of the human individual, including physical properties like body size and shape.
    • Anthropometric data is used to design products and spaces that meet the needs of users, considering factors like height, weight, arm length, and more.

    Ergonomics

    • Ergonomics involves designing products and spaces that are usable, intuitive, and comfortable for users.
    • Ergonomics incorporates human measurements, human movement, strength, and stamina, as well as texture, color, and other material preferences.

    Fundamental Requirements for an Inclusive Environment

    • There are several fundamental requirements for an inclusive environment, including:
      • Space and clearance
      • Height of controls
      • Slope and level change
      • Surfaces and texture
      • Visual contrast
      • Illumination and lighting
      • Force
      • Shape
      • Safety considerations
      • Consistency and predictability

    Adapting the Environment for People

    • People respond differently to their environment, and their responses are determined by their own characteristics or roles.
    • Adaptations can be made to the environment to accommodate people with different abilities, such as wheelchair users, people with strollers, and people with hearing or sight impairments.
    • People with sight-related challenges adapt to their environment using other senses, such as hearing, touch, and smell.
    • Adaptations can be made to the environment to accommodate people with sight-related challenges, such as:
      • Using consistent and logical layouts
      • Avoiding obstacles and uneven flooring
      • Providing clear pathways and free spaces
      • Using color contrast and high-contrast lighting
      • Avoiding glare and gloss
      • Providing sensory clues, such as Braille and raised lettering
    • People with hearing-related limitations rely on other senses, such as visual and tactile information.
    • Adaptations can be made to the environment to accommodate people with hearing-related challenges, such as:
      • Using written information and signage
      • Providing assistive technology, such as hearing aids and FM loops
      • Considering acoustics in the design of spaces

    Unit 4.1: Universal Design - Principles, Concepts, and Practices

    • This unit focuses on integrating Universal Design principles and standards when planning and executing a rating.
    • Students will learn about the principles of Universal Design, its concepts, and practices.

    A Brief History of Inclusion in the Built Environment

    • In 1944, Edmund "Ed" Desjardins identified basic access issues in public buildings.
    • In 1949, Ed co-founded the first freestanding rehabilitation clinic for people with spinal cord injuries in North America.
    • The clinic, G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre in Vancouver, is still in operation today.
    • Ed advocated for legislative change, resulting in Vancouver's first access-related bylaw in 1949.
    • The bylaw became the forerunner for the 1979 provincial standards and subsequent code reform in Canada.

    The Evolution of Universal Design

    • The US-based Barrier-Free Design movement began in the late 1940s.
    • The movement was driven by factors such as the large number of Second World War soldiers returning home with disabling injuries.
    • By the 1960s, equality of access to the environment had migrated into the civil rights movement.
    • In 1968, the International Symbol of Accessibility was adopted.
    • The 1970s saw the growth of the Independent Living Movement, advocating for making communities and housing accessible.
    • In the 1990s, omnibus legislation in the US (the ADA) and in Ireland and Australia drove a new awareness of the real needs of people with disabilities in the built environment.
    • The concept of Universal Design emerged, considering a broad range of individuals, not just those with disabilities.

    Definitions of Inclusive and Universal Design

    • Inclusive design is defined as "open to everyone; not limited to certain people" (Cambridge Dictionary).
    • Universal Design is defined as "the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design" (Ronald Mace, 1988).

    The Seven Principles of Universal Design

    • Principle 1: Equitable Use
      • Provides the same means of use for all users.
      • Avoids segregating, stigmatizing, or isolating any users.
    • Principle 2: Flexibility in Use
      • Provides choice in methods of use.
      • Accommodates right- or left-handed access and use.
    • Principle 3: Simple and Intuitive Use
      • Eliminates unnecessary complexity.
      • Is consistent with user expectations and intuition.
    • Principle 4: Perceptible Information
      • Uses different modes (pictorial, verbal, tactile) for redundant presentation of essential information.
      • Provides adequate contrast between essential information and its surroundings.
    • Principle 5: Tolerance for Error
      • Arranges elements to minimize hazards and errors.
      • Provides warnings of hazards and errors in a variety of sensory modes.
    • Principle 6: Low Physical Effort
      • Allows users to maintain a neutral body position.
      • Uses reasonable operating forces.
    • Principle 7: Size and Space for Approach and Use
      • Provides appropriate size and space for approach, reach, manipulation, and use, regardless of user's body size, posture, or mobility.### Universal Design Principles
    • Provides a clear line of sight to important elements for any seated or standing user
    • Makes reach to all components comfortable for any seated or standing user
    • Accommodates variations in hand size and grip size
    • Provides adequate space for the use of assistive devices or personal assistance

    Examples of Universal Design and Non-Universal Design

    • Parking spaces: adequate space for maneuvering around a vehicle vs. narrow parking spaces
    • Pathways: clear width with adequate space for passing and turning vs. narrow pathways
    • Washrooms: adequate turning radius allowance at urinals, within stalls, and behind sinks vs. inadequate space for wheelchairs

    The Eight Goals of Universal Design

      1. Body fit: design accommodates people with a wide range of body sizes, statures, and abilities or function
      1. Comfort: design ensures comfort for people with a wide range of body sizes, statures, and abilities or function
      1. Awareness: design ensures critical information is easily perceived
      1. Understanding: methods of operation and use are intuitive, clear, and unambiguous
      1. Wellness: design contributes to health promotion, avoidance of disease, and protection from hazards
      1. Social integration: design treats all groups of people with dignity and respect
      1. Personalization: design offers opportunities for choice and expression of individual preferences
      1. Contextual appropriateness: design respects and reinforces cultural values and the social and environmental context

    Ten Things to Know About Universal Design

      1. Universal Design strives to improve the original design concept by making it more inclusive
      1. Universally Designed products can have a high aesthetic value
      1. Universal Design is an approach to designing, not a design style or trend
      1. Universal Design does not aim to replace products targeted at specific markets
      1. Universal Design is not a synonym for compliance with accessible design standards
      1. Universal Design benefits more people than just older people and people with disabilities
      1. Universal Design can be undertaken by any designer, not just specialists
      1. Universal Design should be integrated throughout the design process
      1. Universal Design is not just about "one size fits all"
      1. A Universally Designed product is the goal: Universal Design is the process

    The Whole is Greater Than the Sum of Its Parts

    • Accessibility or usability can be affected by a range of factors, including medical injuries, unfamiliarity with a product or environment, lack of understanding, physical attributes, and more
    • Universal Design aims to provide a design that takes into account these physical, behavioral, and other factors

    What is Assistive Technology?

    • Assistive technology refers to add-on and/or support products that could make a formerly inaccessible environment more accessible

    Economic and Social Benefits of Building Inclusive Environments

    • Economic benefits include:
      • Anticipating the needs of users by having structural requirements for assistive devices already built into the infrastructure
      • Cost savings from operating a Universal Design built environment
      • Retail and commercial spaces that are welcoming to people with disabilities will enjoy benefits as the number of active people with disabilities increases
    • Social benefits include:
      • Reducing the need for retrofits and renovations, reducing construction materials dumped into landfills
      • Providing an exponentially increased number of housing options for people with disabilities, older adults, and seniors
      • Building and maintaining communities through inclusive design

    Beneficiaries of Universal Design

    • The beneficiaries of Universal Design include:
      • An aging population
      • Active people
      • Short people, little people
      • Tall people
      • Frail people
      • Pregnant women
      • Parents with children in strollers
      • Children with aging parents
      • Children
      • Left-handed people
      • People who don't speak the local language
      • Visitors to unfamiliar cities
      • People using a service animal
      • People with all kinds of disabilities### Aging in Place
    • Aging in place is not a new concept, but it has been lost sight of in society.
    • It involves designing spaces that cater to people's diverse needs and abilities.

    Human Factors and Ergonomics

    • Human factors and ergonomics (HF&E) consider the interaction between people and their environment.
    • It involves designing products, systems, or processes that take into account the users' physical and cognitive abilities.
    • Anthropometry, the study of human body measurements, is a crucial aspect of HF&E.

    Anthropometry

    • Anthropometry refers to the measurement of human body dimensions and abilities.
    • It includes static anthropometry (measurement of body sizes at rest) and functional anthropometry (measurement of abilities related to completing tasks).
    • Anthropometric data is used to design products and spaces that are comfortable and accessible for users.

    Ergonomics

    • Ergonomics is the relationship between people and the products they use.
    • It incorporates anthropometric data to design products that meet users' needs and are comfortable to use.
    • Ergonomics also considers factors like force, movement, and texture.

    Inclusive Environment

    • An inclusive environment is designed to be accessible and usable by everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.
    • Fundamental requirements for an inclusive environment include:
      • Space and clearance
      • Height of controls
      • Slope and level change
      • Surfaces and texture
      • Visual contrast
      • Illumination and lighting
      • Force
      • Shape
      • Safety considerations
      • Consistency and predictability

    Adapting the Environment

    • People respond differently to their environment based on their individual characteristics and abilities.
    • The built environment should be adapted to meet the needs of diverse users, including those with disabilities.
    • Adapting the environment involves considering factors like:
      • Materials and maintenance
      • Types of hazards
      • Communication and signage
      • Universal Design principles
    • People with sight-related challenges, such as blindness and low vision, adapt to their environment by relying on other senses like hearing, touch, and smell.
    • Design features that cater to people with sight-related challenges include:
      • Clear pathways with even flooring surfaces
      • Logical and straightforward layout
      • Clustering of amenities
      • Avoiding colour-coded distinctions
      • Using high-contrast colours and lighting
    • People with hearing-related challenges, such as deafness and hard of hearing, rely on other senses like vision and touch.
    • Design features that cater to people with hearing-related challenges include:
      • Acoustics and noise reduction
      • Written information and signage
      • Support and assistive technology like hearing aids and cochlear implants
      • FM or induction loops for amplifying sound

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    UD.docx

    Description

    Learn about the Seven Principles of Universal Design and their application in the built environment, promoting accessibility and inclusivity for all.

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