We are happy to announce a forthcoming Lecture module on the topic of Accessibility in Architecture and Cultural Heritage, aiming to delve into the critical themes of orientation and accessibility within architectural spaces, with a specific focus on enhancing the perceptual experiences of blind individuals and those with sensory disabilities or neurodiversity. It begins by emphasizing the importance of assessing our existing knowledge and understanding the methods and tools needed for effective communication with people who are blind, deaf, or have autism spectrum disorders. This fundamental step paves the way for exploring innovative proposals in the field of cultural heritage communication and spatial representation designed to cater to individuals with diverse sensory or neurological abilities. The module goes beyond theory to include participatory activities, encouraging the sharing and practical application of the knowledge acquired. The ultimate goal is to equip learners with a versatile workflow applicable to a wide range of case studies and contexts, enriching the experience of all users within the realm of cultural heritage.
The module consists of two short courses:
Course 1: Analysis and Orientation for Accessible Architecture
Lecturer: Alessandro Meloni, University of Genoa, Department of Architecture and Design (Italy)
Abstract: The course is based on the themes of orientation and accessibility of space, focusing on blind people’s perception. The process of understanding architecture and the tools useful to communicate features that characterize the space will be analysed. Understanding the importance of these factors allows us to highlight some aspects capable of enriching each user’s experience. The aim is to provide knowledge useful for defining a flexible workflow applicable to different case studies and contexts.
Course 2: Enhancement of Accessibility in Cultural Heritage
Lecturer: Cristina Càndito, University of Genoa, Department of Architecture and Design (Italy)
Abstract: How can we make Cultural Heritage more accessible to users with sensory disabilities or neurodiversity? The first step is always to assess our knowledge: in this case, we must ask ourselves what are the methods and tools that allow for effective communication with a blind or deaf person, or people with autism spectrum disorders. Some proposals designed for the communication of cultural contents and the representation of space carried out for and with people with diverse sensory or neurological abilities will be analyzed and participatory activities that allow the knowledge acquired to be shared and put into practice will be proposed.
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Aimed to bring knowledge in synergy the two courses in the module will be presented in parallel on 02 and 09 of November 2023.
You can register here or in the specific events in the Events section of the site.