Universal Design in ECE

02/14/2005

"Love's not a potato. You can't throw it out the window." - Russian Proverb

Universal Design in ECE

In the Exchange article, "Learning Materials for Children of All Abilities," which serves as the basis for the latest Out of the Box Training Kit, Kirsten Haugen observes that "universal design" should be the starting point for programs that serve children of all abilities:

"According to Ron Mace, an early advocate of the concept, 'Universal design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.' Sue Mistrett, director of the Let's Play Project at the University of Buffalo, puts it this way: 'Universal design is making everyone feel comfortable the moment they come in the door.' In fact, automatic doors and keyless entry systems are excellent examples of universal design, as are curbside ramps, easy-grip kitchen utensils, public signs with internationally recognized colors, shapes, and symbols, and closed captioning devices built into televisions.

"Applying the principles of universal design to the preschool setting can make early childhood programs more welcoming to....children with special needs, and decrease the need for specialized equipment by choosing, adapting, and using everyday materials in ways that enhance opportunities for all children to participate, play, and learn. From the familiar and classic, to the new and novel, Mistrett points out that universally designed learning materials share some common features: they are appealing, easy to use, flexible, multi-sensory, and adaptable to a variety of users and situations. They often invite cooperation, and they don't single out or stigmatize the user."

Out of the Box Kits on Sale: This week all online Out of the Box Kits, including "Learning Materials for Children of All Abilities," are on sale at a 20% discount. For details, go to: http://mail.ccie.com/go/eed/0530

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.