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Design and Technology

ABOUT

Every aspect of the built environment affects access, but too often, physical spaces and technologies are designed with a very narrow set of users in mind. Accessible design ensures all members of society have access to cultural, work, civic, leisure, and social activities. Holistic thinking about design and technology invites innovation, collaboration, and creativity to make a better world for everyone.

Disability Studies scholars at UCLA are taking up this work in exciting ways. Learn more about their work below and connect with us to explore opportunities for collaboration!

Building accessible networks

UCLA’s Disabilities and Computing Program is building accessible information networks on-campus and expanding the use of adaptive computing technology within instruction, study, research, and employment at UCLA.

Exploring the promise and peril of new tech

Headshot of Jonathan Kao, who is smiling at the camera and wearing a grey suit jacket, light purple shirt, and striped tie.

Professor Jonathan Kao, Assistant Professor in Electrical & Computer Engineering, is developing intuitive artificial intelligence systems to promote communication for persons with ALS and other forms of paralysis.

  • UCLA’s Disabilities and Computing Program is building accessible information networks on-campus and expanding the use of adaptive computing technology within instruction, study, research, and employment at UCLA.

  • Exploring the promise and peril of new tech

    Professor Jonathan Kao, Assistant Professor in Electrical & Computer Engineering, is developing intuitive artificial intelligence systems to promote communication for persons with ALS and other forms of paralysis.

News & Accomplishments

JOIN THE LAB

We are interested in expanding and supporting activities that explore disability in design and technology through a critical lens.

We are seeking partnerships with faculty, students, and community members to help us conceive and develop a lab built around study, action, and change.

Accessible icon, white drawing of a wheelchair user on a blue background. The user leans forward, emphasizing motion.

The Accessible Icon Project is a grassroots effort to rethink the accessibility icon. To learn more about the project, background, and impact, visit  The Accessible Icon Project.

Making design accessible to all

Professor Lauren McCarthy advocates for human-centered approaches to programming and media creation that advance inclusive web experiences for users as well as designers.

  • Accessible icon, white drawing of a wheelchair user on a blue background. The user leans forward, emphasizing motion.

    The Accessible Icon Project is a grassroots effort to rethink the accessibility icon. To learn more about the project, background, and impact, visit  The Accessible Icon Project.

  • Making design accessible to all

    Professor Lauren McCarthy advocates for human-centered approaches to programming and media creation that advance inclusive web experiences for users as well as designers.