Development of an interdisciplinary service learning pilot project incorporating Universal Design concepts for ADA compliance

Abstract

Engineering and Engineering Technology students need to become more socially aware and learn to think of the entire population that may use the products or equipment they design. One of the main objectives of this project is to demonstrate how products can be designed to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and usable by all people. The concept of Universal Design has emerged as a key component of this effort. Universal Design involves the entire process from its conception to end use, thinking more inclusively of the entire population including those with disabilities. This paper describes a pilot project being developed to teach these new Universal Design concepts within the confines of a senior design project for Engineers and Engineering Technology undergraduate students. The students would participate in undergraduate research that has a service learning component while studying the principles of Universal Design. This paper describes how through the use of these types of projects a whole new generation of engineers could be trained to better serve our entire population by applying the components of Universal Design. This paper further discusses how this pilot development project could be a model for other universities to incorporate in their degree programs to enhance both the education of the student and the public awareness of how engineers can enhance the lives of people. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2009.