GD 311 - Disability, Accessibility, and Design

Prerequisite, graphic design major or graphic design or disability studies minor or consent of instructor. This interdisciplinary course of designers, educators, leaders, writers, future engineers, entrepreneurs, and other majors on campus will explore design and design thinking methods to consider and welcome many forms of human diversity including neurodiversity, sensory, physical, cognitive, and cultural diversity. The course will use project-based learning focusing on the foundations of design. This course introduces some of the fundamental principles of accessibility and prepares students for further study in universal and inclusive design. Students will have an opportunity to explore the major types of disabilities and related topics including the difference between Inclusive and Universal design; 508 Compliance (The Rehabilitation Act of 1973); Sensory design; Representation; Digital communication interfaces; Typography and document design; Adaptive strategies, Content creation, and Critical design theory. Featured guest speakers will provide perspectives and expertise as well as case studies in universal design and architecture, inclusive design in education, emergency management and public safety, representation in advertising and media, and accessibility in corporate and community settings. Letter grade. With consent, this course may be repeated for credit. (Offered every year.) 3 credits