Access.
Webster's online dictionary defines access as a way of getting near, at, or to something or someone. A way of being able to use or get something. Permission or the right to enter, get near, or make use of something or to have contact someone.
Simple definition, I think, and yet the concept of access seems to be difficult to achieve. I'm referring to access to buildings, airplanes, homes, parks, schools, and learning. Why not have a universal way of thinking, which would make things readily available to everyone, as it should be! We need to plan for everyone.
For example, curb cuts may have the purpose of giving access to people who use a wheelchair, but they make things available to so many more. It's use is universal. How difficult would it be to go grocery shopping with kids if you have to lift a stroller over a curb to get into the building? Ramps make buildings available to so many people! We have to shift our thinking: ALL.
For example, curb cuts may have the purpose of giving access to people who use a wheelchair, but they make things available to so many more. It's use is universal. How difficult would it be to go grocery shopping with kids if you have to lift a stroller over a curb to get into the building? Ramps make buildings available to so many people! We have to shift our thinking: ALL.
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| What is this?! How can this be right? |
I can't forget access to learning. Not only must we shift our thinking in access to physical locations, but we must shift our thinking to one of universal design of learning (UDL). We all learn differently. Don't argue with me on this, we do...period. UDL promotes learning for every student by providing an opportunity to all to access, participate, and make progress in the curriculum. Teachers explain concepts differently to different students. We do this almost automatically, on the fly, as students ask questions or give a perplexed look.
So, with all that said...
What are your ideas to make sure everyone has access?
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