Activity Instructions

Use a browser to locate examples of universal design that address performance issues in an instructional context. For example try search terms such as universal design instruction. Locate an example of universal design that relates to visual literacy. An example of a design solution is shown here.

Example of Justification

When I searched for a visual example of universal design related to instruction, I came across a Simple and Intuitive principle, described as design that is easy to understand, regardless of the user's experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.

This description made me think of controls for range-top cooking. I found an image showing range top control knobs placed on the stove top in a way that would communicate to most people easily. I consider this design as visual because the knobs provide a visual cue that is easily perceived due to their relative location on the stove top. The design is universal because it is likely to appeal to a majority of individuals. The cues are visual, not verbal, and thus allow communication that cuts through language barriers. I think it is interesting that not only were the knobs placed in a more intuitive location, but also the burner arrangement was changed.

Universal design attends to physical access isues too. Placing each knob immediately adjacent to the burner would create a situation where people might accidentally burn themselves when they reach for the control knob. Placing the knobs in front of the burners, near the edge of the range top, minimizes the chance of burning