Lesson 1 A Better Life for Everybody
Universal Design for Everyone
Did you know that one out of every ten people in the ____ is left-handed?
They face challenges in ____ society designed for right-handed individuals.
It is inconvenient for them to use some right-handed products such as scissors, cameras, and computer ____
The world we live in is designed to be an environment suitable for what is considered “normal” for the majority of ____ and it is filled with objects that are easy for them to use.
Thus, those who do not belong to that category have no choice ____ to live with discomfort.
In other words, a minority of people with physical differences, such as the left-handed, the disabled, and the elderly, either endure inconvenience or deliberately seek objects designed especially for them, which are often ____ to find.
Is it impossible to build an environment where everyone can use products ____ facilities conveniently and without limitations?
It was Ronald Mace who sought the answer ____ this question.
He contracted polio at the age of nine and spent the rest of his life in a ____
When studying architecture ____ university, he struggled to access some campus facilities due to inaccessible building designs.
This experience later inspired him to invent the ____ universal design, which refers to design for all.
As an architect and product designer, he pursued a world in ____ all products and environments were designed to be artistic and usable to the greatest extent possible by everyone, regardless of their age, size, disability, nationality, or language.
According to the principles
According to the principles of universal design, the design must be able to be used equitably, flexibly, simply, and intuitively by ____ wide variety of people.
In addition, ____ should be cognitively accessible and minimize users’ physical ef forts.
Finally, it requires the providing of sufficient space for all ____ while reducing potential hazards and adverse consequences from accidental or unintended actions.
A key feature of universal design is that this is not a special requirement only for ____ benefit of a minority of the population.
If an environment is accessible, usable, convenient, and a pleasure to use, everyone in the ____ benefits.
How has ____ design been incorporated into modern architecture?
One of the most representative examples of universal design ____ used to improve accessibility is the ramps installed in front of buildings.
Ramps, not stairs, are necessary for people with disabilities who use wheelchairs, and they are also beneficial for parents pushing strollers ____ the elderly.
Another example is automatic doors.
They are invaluable for those who rely on assistive devices ____ as wheelchairs and crutches.
They also provide convenience for adults who have their hands full and children who are not tall enough to ____ the doors themselves.
A further example is tactile ____
These textured surfaces, often found on sidewalks, steps, and crosswalks, assist visually impaired individuals by guiding ____ through urban spaces.
Universal design is not only applied ____ modern architecture but also extends to transportation systems.
For instance, buses have ____ designed with a floor closer to ground level to ease access for all passengers.
Handles of various lengths are provided, another method by which universal design is implemented to ____ passengers’ different heights.
Subway maps have also been designed ____ color-blind individuals to clearly distinguish between subway lines by adjusting the color and the brightness and by varying the thickness of lines that have similar colors.
Additionally, the use of pictograms can be ____ frequently.
Signs indicating the ____ of subway or train stations assist international travelers who may not be familiar with the local language.
Likewise, road signs indicating school zones, speed limits, ____ directions for turns and stops aid drivers in recognizing important information more easily.
While universal design has
While universal design has been utilized in architecture and transportation systems for some time, a ____ application is in the fashion industry.
Clothing designed with universal design integrates stretchable and breathable ____ enhancing comfort and mobility.
Other features include the use of magnets ____ Velcro in place of buttons, making it easier to put on and take off clothing.
It also incorporates traits like stretchy waistbands and adjustable sleeves to allow individuals with ____ to dress independently.
This type of clothing is also beneficial for pregnant women, older adults ____ may experience mobility issues, and individuals with temporary injuries or medical conditions.
Overall, ____ design clothing promotes increased comfort, convenience, independence, and improved mobility and flexibility for wearers of all abilities.
You may find it surprising that universal design can be found in more parts of society than ____ thought.
However, enough has not been done to ____ everyone yet.
Universal design should ____ implemented more extensively to promote full participation in the community for a wider range of people.
It is time to build more equitable environments that ____ accessible to everyone.
So are you on board to create a universally designed ____ for all?