Universal Design and Accessibility Training Course Modules: Menu options and overview
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by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob (2023), designer and trainer, and the information shared is Copyright © 2023 by Xiron Engineering Services Sdn. Bhd.
We provide training advisory services to individuals, building professionals, companies/businesses, government agencies, local authorities, NGOs, universities, and students. The following is a template of our services, which can be tailor-suit to your needs. The input is on the topics of Universal Design and Accessibility.
Menu and options
You can choose to have either (1), (2) or (3). This is the recommended combination of modules to suit the objectives. Please discuss your learning objectives by contacting: naziaty@gmail.com
(1) 1-day seminar (9 am to 5 pm = 7 hours)
(Based on the table below minus module 5)
(2) Half-day seminar (9 am to 1 pm = 4 hours)
(Combination of modules 2, 3 & 4)
(3) 2-hour talk
(Combination of modules 2 & 3)
Guide: O – optional; C – compulsory; P – practical; T – theory
| Module | Hours | Title |
| 1Understanding Barriers | ½ | Ice-breaking (P) (O) |
| ½ | Introduction on Disability (T) (C) | |
| 2Human Dimensions | ½ | Introduction to Standards (T) (C) |
| 1 | Simulation Exercises (P) (C) | |
| 3Design with Empathy | ½ | Introduction to Universal Design (T) (C) |
| ½ | Mock-up of Design Layouts (P) (O) | |
| 4Access Auditing | ½ | Introduction to Access Auditing (T) (C) |
| 1 ½ | Site Visit / Access Auditing (P) (C) | |
| 5Assessment on Course | ½ | Theoretical test (T) (C) |
| 1 | Design test (P) (O) | |
| Total hours | 8 hours |
Brief explanation regarding the modules:
Module 1: Understanding Barriers
An “introduction to disability” is an important first step to discovering our “empathy level” as we found out not many people usually interact with persons with disabilities and even older persons. When we move around we encounter obvious physical barriers, but these exist due to “attitudinal barriers” (inside a person) that developed from the years of our social-cultural, workplace, and environmental conditioning. This module will focus on reflection and the expression of our deep understanding. Additionally, we will introduce the correct terms (terminology) to be used or “inclusive language” in interacting with persons with disabilities, similar to this link, though we will be providing training material in the Malaysian context. An example of the right approach is: focusing on the person and not the impairment.
Alternatively, if you want thorough and focused training on aspects in module 1, you can opt for specific Disability Equality Training (DET) and Disability-Related Services Training (DRST) offered by organizations and individuals, such as Peter Tan (DET Forum).
Module 2: Human Dimensions
(Anthropometry and ergonomy study)
An “introduction to building standards” by the use of “simulation exercises” to understand the human relationship with the building, and how they access, use, and feel safe to use the building components. The understanding of critical dimensions and why in design and construction, the inclusion of persons with disabilities needs studied and taken into account in the planning, design, and implementation stages of development is imperative.
The first step is to determine a person’s basic dimensions when they use a wheelchair ( as shown in the illustration above). The study of anthropometry was taught in first-year architecture school, but architects have to relearn in this course, as they were not taught universal design
Module 3: Design with Empathy
Knowledge of universal design must be taught with the implementation of the principles in the practice. For the participant, the design of a module such as a corridor space and toilet space, in a mock-up exercise and having to assess the space allocated themselves using the simulation equipment such as a wheelchair, will help to establish the critical dimensions learned earlier.
Module 4: Access Auditing
The introduction to access auditing, along with a site visit will give a clearer understanding of tools and methods of reporting on the extent of accessibility that is afforded by the building and facilities. The different objectives one conducting an access audit will determine the data to be collected, analysed, and reported and whether a design will be required further.
Module 5: Assessment of Course (Feedback on knowledge and skills gained)
As with all training courses that provide a certificate of completion, in this case, an assessment of the knowledge and skills acquired from the course from a presentation by the participant will determine whether the participant has the interest to develop their knowledge in this field further. As compared to what the Centre of Accessible Environments in the UK is doing, in Malaysia, we have yet to have a proper training facility and get proper certification, but this assessment will determine the basic interest of the participant.
Access Audit & Universal Design 
