Hi all
Here is University College Dublin we have an extensive building
programme in progress involving the construction of many new
buildings and the refurbishment of existing buildings. I am part of
the project team for many of the projects and we are fortunate that
we have an overall willingness amongst the team - architects,
university building dept, etc on inclusive design for people with a
disability.
However as many of you know, it isn't until the designers, etc see
first hand what we mean by inclusive design practices for people
with a disability, that they finally get a real appreciation for what it
is. So that is where my quest begins.
We have secured funding to visit higher education establishments
in Ireland and the UK and to view models of good practice in the
construction of facilities that proactively include the needs of
people with a disability. It is with this in mind that I seek your
assistance.
Can people advise me of any facilities in Universities, especially
with regard to University residences, lecture theatre access and
general campus accessibility, which could be classed as models
of good practice. Ideally these facilities would include the use of
assistive technology coupled with use of inclusive design
principles.
For example with University residences, the use of automated
entry systems, adjustable height kitchen and bathroom appliances,
integrated fire and emergency alert systems, automation of internal
doors, windows, lights, aircon, etc, provsion for visually impaired
and blind students (tactile, colour contrasting, way finding
systems).
It is rare to find all this in one University campus and I fully
recognise this. But any help that people can offer would be
greatfully appreciated.
Regards
John B
John Bennett
Disability Officer
John Henry Newman Building
University College Dublin
Belfield,
Dublin 4.
Telephone: + 353 1 716 8350
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