Research and Education in Accessibility, Design, and Innovation (READi) : A Reflection of Our First Year

Abstract

Research and Education in Accessibility, Design, and Innovation (READi) is an interdisciplinary training program focusing on accessibility.  With the first year of the READi completed, this paper provides an overview of the design of the program and reflections from the program, as experienced by two of its trainees.  The training program appears to have increased the knowledge and skills of student trainees with regard to accessibility, while also enhancing many professional skills.  In addition, there appears to be affective learning, uplifting the thoughts, opinions, and feelings of accessibility and inclusion, that foster a culture of accessibility.  The program benefits from interdisciplinarity, collaborations with external stakeholders, engagement with real-world accessibility issues, and inclusion of people with disabilities.