Multisensory inclusive design education: a 3D experience

Abstract

Inclusive design should be an integral part of the curriculum in the education of environmental design disciplines, incorporating empathic understanding. Among the empathic methods that are employed, ‘build-to-learn’ that promotes experiential learning is effective in students’ multisensory and bodily engagement with the process and product. This paper discusses an exercise in a Human Factors/Ergonomics course in interior design where students create ‘A 3D Experience’. Analysis of exemplary work suggests various ways in which different senses may come forth into awareness to sometimes enrich and at other times limit embodied space, thus opening up a venue of inclusivity in novel and unpredictable ways. Research conducted on student perspectives reveals that the assignment had positive impact on their understanding and awareness of, and attitudes towards, inclusive design, as well as creative thinking.