BIBV3600 Universal Design Course description

In Norway there are legal requirements for universal design of among others ICT systems, archives and libraries. The purpose of this course is to understand how different user needs and prerequisites affect the usability of ICT solutions and other services, such as web sites, digital and physical libraries and archives. This course will focus on how universal design may reduce potential barriers in our society, due to differences in gender, age, cultural background and sensory, motor and cognitive abilities. Topics such as usability testing, legislation, guidelines and accessibility studies will be addressed, and issues such as 'is there a design for all?', 'is it possible to make something accessible for everybody?' will be discussed.

None.

Knowledge

After completion of the course, the student has

• knowledge of universal design and the purpose behind this concept
• an understanding of the difference between universal design and accessibility
• knowledge of user diversity and user needs in relation to the design of ICT solutions in general, and libraries and archives in particular
• knowledge of relevant conventions, legislation and guidelines
• an understanding of usability and user testing

Skills

After completion of the course, the student is able to

• carry out user analyses, based on different user demographics and contexts
• conduct a selection of accessibility tests
• evaluate whether products and services are universally designed

General competences

After completion of the course, the student

• is aware of user diversity and potential barriers against equal participation in society
• understands legislation and measures for developing an inclusive society

The course consists of lectures and self-studies.

A compulsory oral presentation in small groups of an academic paper on a relevant topic related to universal design. Course requirements must be completed and approved before the student can hand in the exam.

Two individual assignments (approx. 5 pages for assignment 1, 10 pages for assignment 2) based on the coursework requirements are submitted for assessment. The topic of each project must be approved by the teacher.

Assignment 1 accounts for 40% and assignment 2 accounts for 60% of the grade. The student must pass both parts to pass the course.

Students having failed or having valid absence are entitled to sit for a new examination in the part(s) they have failed.

All utilities allowed as long as the rules for source reference are followed.

Students are awarded grades on a descending scale from A to E for pass and F for fail.

The written examination is assessed by an internal and an external examiner. The external examiner grades a random sample consisting of approx. 25 per cent. The grades given for this sample provide a basis for internal examiners.