Short answer
Design STEM laboratories and associated learning materials with universal accessibility principles from the outset, rather than as an afterthought.
- Field
- Human Factors
- Source
- Technology and Disability (2019)
- Method
- Qualitative analysis of thematic sessions and expert review.
- Evidence
- Strong effect
Traditional laboratory setups present significant barriers to participation in STEM fields for individuals with disabilities, hindering their engagement and access to related careers. This human factors research insight is drawn from a 2019 study published in Technology and Disability. Using Qualitative analysis of thematic sessions and expert review., researchers explored how this design variable affects real-world outcomes. The key design takeaway: Design STEM laboratories and associated learning materials with universal accessibility principles from the outset, rather than as an afterthought.
Laboratory accessibility significantly impacts STEM engagement for individuals with disabilities.
Traditional laboratory setups present significant barriers to participation in STEM fields for individuals with disabilities, hindering their engagement and access to related careers.
Technology and Disability · 2019
Key Findings
- 01Laboratories are a significant area of difficulty and exclusion in STEM education for individuals with disabilities.
- 02Specific barriers include physical access, manipulation of equipment, and understanding complex scientific concepts presented in traditional formats.
Application
Design takeaway
Design STEM laboratories and associated learning materials with universal accessibility principles from the outset, rather than as an afterthought.
How to apply
When designing any educational or research facility, conduct thorough accessibility audits and consult with disability advocacy groups.
Project actions
- 01When researching a product, consider if it's accessible to people with different abilities.
- 02Think about how physical barriers might affect a user's experience.
Method & Evidence
Variables
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- +Focuses on a critical area of exclusion in STEM.
- +Highlights the importance of accessibility in educational settings.
Limitations
The research is based on discussions rather than direct observation of specific lab equipment or procedures.
Reliability & validity
Thematic sessions can be subjective; findings might vary with different participant groups. Validity relies on the depth of discussion and the expertise of participants.
Think critically
How might the exclusion of individuals with disabilities from STEM laboratories impact innovation and the diversity of scientific thought?
Design Principles
"Universal Design for Learning (UDL) should be applied to all educational and research environments."
Designers and educators must consider the diverse needs of all potential users when creating learning environments. Inaccessible laboratory designs can exclude a substantial portion of the population from STEM education and professions, leading to a loss of talent and diverse perspectives.
What This Means for Your Design
Science labs can be hard for people with disabilities to use, which stops them from learning science and getting science jobs. We need to make labs easier for everyone to use.
How to use in your project
- 1.Use this research to justify the need for accessible design features in your project.
- 2.Cite this study when discussing the importance of inclusive design in your research.
Add to My Project
Quick Cite
Paragraph starter
This research underscores the critical need for accessible laboratory environments within STEM education. The findings indicate that traditional lab setups present significant barriers for individuals with disabilities, impacting their ability to engage with scientific subjects and pursue related careers. Therefore, any design project aiming to improve STEM accessibility must prioritize inclusive design principles to ensure equitable participation.
Source
Questions About This Research
- What does the research say about laboratory accessibility significantly impacts stem engagement for individuals with disabilities?
- Design STEM laboratories and associated learning materials with universal accessibility principles from the outset, rather than as an afterthought. Evidence: Technology and Disability (2019).
- Why does "Laboratory accessibility significantly impacts STEM engagement for individuals with disabilities." matter for design?
- Designers and educators must consider the diverse needs of all potential users when creating learning environments. Inaccessible laboratory designs can exclude a substantial portion of the population from STEM education and professions, leading to a loss of talent and diverse perspectives.
- How can designers apply this research?
- Design STEM laboratories and associated learning materials with universal accessibility principles from the outset, rather than as an afterthought.
- What were the main findings?
- Laboratories are a significant area of difficulty and exclusion in STEM education for individuals with disabilities.. Specific barriers include physical access, manipulation of equipment, and understanding complex scientific concepts presented in traditional formats.
- What research method was used?
- Qualitative analysis of thematic sessions and expert review..
- How strong is the evidence?
- Evidence strength is rated Strong effect, based on a 2019 journal from Technology and Disability.
- What should I do differently in my next project?
- When designing any educational or research facility, conduct thorough accessibility audits and consult with disability advocacy groups.
- What are the limitations?
- The study focuses on thematic sessions, which may not capture the full spectrum of individual experiences or specific technical requirements.