Difficulty: Explorer (Level 1)
Diversity celebrates what makes us different. People can have different cultures, abilities, religions, ages, genders and preferences on who they love.
Hong Kong has the Equal Opportunities Commission. This group is working to get rid of discrimination. Discrimination is when people are treated badly because of their differences.
One part of celebrating diversity is making sure people with disabilities have the freedom to do what they want to do. But if we do not keep their needs in mind, they will be left out. Universal design makes sure that products, spaces and information can be used by as many people as possible.
For example, if someone uses a wheelchair, doors and walkways need to be wide enough to fit their vehicle. If someone has blindness or low vision, bumps on the ground help them sense where they are going.
These are ways to make our world more welcoming to everyone.
Is it universal?
Are the options below examples of universal design?
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Doorways with no steps
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Counters and tables that are high above the ground
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Knobs to open doors
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Entryways with wide ramps
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Green and red lights are the only way to tell if it is safe to walk
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Bumps on the ground show if you are close to the road’s edge
Redesign your school
Materials
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pen and paper
Instructions
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Choose a room at school. It could be the cafeteria, a classroom or the washroom.
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Find three spots that could be challenging for someone with disabilities to use.
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Now, use your imagination to redesign it. Draw your ideas on paper, and show your teacher. Maybe your idea could help a future student.
Answers for “Is it universal?”: 1. yes; 2. no; 3. no; 4. yes; 5. no; 6. yes
