This is an online course that is only available during specifically scheduled dates. Once registered and payment received, the Georgia Tech CATEA office (trainingcore@coa.gatech.edu) will contact you to provide course access instructions.

This course will introduce the concept and history of universal design (UD), and will discuss similarities and differences between UD and specialized design. The Principles of Universal Design will be introduced. The course will provide information regarding universal and accessible design for use of and interpretive interaction in a variety of public spaces, including recreational, entertainment, cultural, healthcare, and interactive venues.

Participants will:

• Be able to list at least seven Principles of Universal Design
• Be able to discuss the Principles as they apply to use of and interpretive interaction within a public space
• Be able to describe the similarities and differences between universal and specialized design
• Be able to identity universal and accessible design features that are applicable to a variety of public spaces
• Identify resources pertaining to Universal and Accessible Design

Powerpoint slides and resources for accommodations materials, accessible / universal design and assistive technology will be made available on line prior to start of webinar.

Webinar course will be taught over a 3 week period of time, once weekly, with each session lasting 2 hours.

Part 1

• Introduction, housekeeping
• Why Universal Design (UD)?
• The History of UD – creation of the concept, related theories and models
• Legislation and policy impacting UD
• UD vs Specialized design
• The Principles:
  1. Equitable Use
  2. Flexibility in Use
  3. Simple and Intuitive Use
  4. Perceptible Information
  5. Tolerance for Error
  6. Low Physical Effort
  7. Size and Space for Approach and Use
  8. Social Integration
  9. Contextual Integration
• Activity: Is it universal? (products)
• Discussion and questions

Part 2

• Review of Part 1
• UD and accessible design and use of:
• Recreation spaces -
  • Parks
  • Playgrounds
  • Exercise facilities/spas
  • Amusement parks
• Entertainment spaces –
  • Theaters
  • Restaurants
  • Sporting facilities
• Stores, banks, and post offices
• Voting – Polling places
• Activity: Is it Universal? (spaces)
• Discussion and questions

Part 3

• Review of Part 1 and 2
• UD and accessible design and interpretive interaction (effective communication) in:
  • Cultural spaces–
    • Museums
    • Zoos/aquariums
    • Gardens
    • National parks
  • Amusement parks
  • Sporting facilities - ticketing and viewing events
  • Healthcare – hospitals, patients and families
  • Voting – Electronic voting machines
  • Activity: Is it Universal? (spaces)
  • Universal and accessible design resources
  • Discussion and questions
  • Test

This course is an elective for the Workplace Accommodations and Home Modifications Certificate.