Category: Conferences and events

Beyond Universal Design: What else can designers do?

UD-logo-200x200Transcript from the live captioning of Guy Luscombe’s presentation, Beyond Universal Design: What else can designers do?

Guy outlines his research in Europe which included engagement with older residents in care settings and found some unexpected results.  He was looking for innovative buildings for housing and care for older people.  Large windows was an unexpected finding and he goes on to discuss why this might be one of the most desirable features, among others, for older people.

Guy Luscombe Presentation Transcript PDF

Guy Luscombe Presentation Transcript Word

Abstract:

The principles of universal design, as they are realised in buildings and products, focus on physical and physiological needs such as accessibility and of ease of use.

However, despite being hinted at by principles of equitability and simplicity, the more emotional and psychological barriers, such as stigmatisation and social exclusion, are not usually actively addressed in building design.

True universal design would surely address this and try to design for the whole person. But is it possible and if so, how can the more emotional and psychological needs be addressed in design?

This presentation will draw upon an exploration of innovative buildings for older people completed as part of a Byera Hadley Travelling Scholarship study tour recently completed to suggest that there are ways to design for the whole person and provide a more thorough, richer and ultimately more inclusive universality.

Universal Design as a Public Good: can it deliver?

A picture of Ger Craddock speaking at the Australian Universal Design Conference 2014
Dr Ger Craddock, Chief Officer, Centre for Excellence in Universal Design (Ireland)

DrGer Craddock’s first keynote presentation, Universal Design as a Public Good, was captioned and transcribed. It was his presentation at the 2014 Australian Universal Design Conference that got CUDA off to a start. The transcript includes questions from the audience

UD as a public good Transcript PDF

UD as a public good Transcript Word

Slideshow presentation PDF 4MB

Synopsis:  Dr Craddock’s presentation covers the importance of using consistent terminology when discussing and researching aspects of universal design and supports the use of the term “universal design” as defined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Also essential to the ongoing success of universal design is finding champions within government and industry. Continue Reading Universal Design as a Public Good: can it deliver?

Final Panel Session: Where to from here?

UD-logo-200x200This is an edited transcript of the final panel session at the Australian Universal Design Conference 2014. 

Dr Ger Craddock, The Hon Susan Ryan AO, Ms Joe Manton, and Mr Richard Hawkins discuss the need for a centre for universal design in Australia. It includes audience questions. 

Final Panel Session Where to from Here? Transcript PDF

Final Panel Session Where to from Here? Transcript Word

Ger Craddock’s presentation of the UD Centre in Ireland

A picture of Ger Craddock speaking at the Australian Universal Design Conference 2014
Dr Ger Craddock, Chief Officer, Centre for Excellence in Universal Design (Ireland)

Embracing the whole mosaic that forms society, Ireland’s story 

You can read the edited transcript from the live captioning of Dr Ger Craddock‘s keynote presentation at the Australian Universal Design Conference 2104. He explains how the Centre for Excellence in Universal Design was set up in 2007 and the progress made to date.  He showcases how a dedicated centre can promote the principles, provide information and educational guidance, develop appropriate standards and be a driving force for inclusion. His presentation was the catalyst for starting CUDA.

Ger Craddock’s transcript  PDF        Ger Craddock’s transcript  Word 

Ger Craddock’s slideshow PDF 4MB

Dr Ger Craddock speaking at the Australian UD Conference in 2014 showing the live captioning screen
Dr Ger Craddock showing the live captioning screen

Synopsis:  Dr Craddock outlines some of the challenges and successes of the Centre for Excellence in Universal Design in Ireland. He explains the establishment of the Centre and its position within the government framework. He highlights the work they have carried out since its inception seven years ago and some of the key documents that have helped inform their work. Much of the Centre’s work has been engaging with stakeholders to develop many standards and guidelines, promotional material, educational packages, and award programs.

The Centre covers the three key areas of design: the built environment, product development, and information and communication technology. Universal design in education is also closely linked. Their website contains many useful publications, guidelines and standards. Dr Craddock’s presentation was followed by a panel session and a call for a similar centre to be set up in Australia. The presentation begins with a video of students undertaking a design challenge.