Design Solutions for Orthopedically Challenged in Higher Education Institutions

摘要

A good design aims to enable all to have equal opportunities to participate in every aspect of society. That is, it must be accessible, convenient for everyone. Four universities were identified for conducting research through purposive random sampling. Twelve student welfare officers were contacted in person t& explore the services rendered by the university to this special section of student population. A check list cum observation sheet was prepared to explore information on the facilities made accessible for the orthopedically challenged students It was observed in this study that the selected higher education buildings did not possess many design features as per standards and recommendations for physically challenged persons. Design guidelines and recommendations suggested by various commissions therefore considered evolving suitable design solutions to overcome the problems and also to meet the needs of non- ambulatory members who may enroll in University for higher education. Design solutions suggested in this study are proposed to overcome the problems in architectural elements in buildings environment like steps at threshold or access to main building, landing surface in front of threshold, entrance door to main building, ramp, pathways, curb ramps, stairs, lifts/elevators, corridors, water fountain, toilet, and parking.