Design for Users with Special Needs - BMEGT52BX4T001-00

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the principles of Design for All, universal design, accessible design, and design for special user needs. The course explores relevant technical guidelines, design strategies, and technologies that support the development of products, services, and physical environments that are usable and accessible to the widest possible range of users. The course focuses on concepts, methods, and real-world examples that help students develop a sensitive, informed, and professional approach to diverse user needs. Special attention is given to the characteristics of various disability groups (e.g., individuals with mobility, visual, auditory, cognitive, or sensory impairments), as well as other life situations (e.g., injury, illness, ageing, pregnancy) that may also generate specific usability requirements. Through hands-on assignments, students will learn how to identify user needs and apply technical and design tools to address them. By the end of the course, they will be able to develop a technically grounded proposal tailored to a specific user group that improves quality of life, supports independent living, or facilitates accessibility in everyday activities or specific scenarios.

1. Possesses comprehensive knowledge of the principles of Design for All, accessible design, and design for special user needs.
2. Is able to interpret and apply these principles within the framework of ergonomic design approaches.
3. Understands the characteristics and fundamental needs of various special user groups (e.g. persons with disabilities, individuals in temporary conditions, and people of different age groups) in relation to product use, access to information, and environmental requirements.
4. Is familiar with the relevant standards and guidelines related to universal design and accessibility.

1. Able to establish effective communication with members of special user groups and involve them in ergonomic design processes.
2. Able to identify diverse user needs and consciously recognize individual differences.
3. Able to develop complex design solutions that, by taking into account various special needs, are accessible and usable for the widest possible range of users.

1. Demonstrates sensitivity to human needs and is characterized by a user-centered approach and mindset.
2. Shows a commitment to continuous learning, seeks broad and thorough knowledge, and displays an interest in interdisciplinary perspectives.
3. Applies systems thinking and a holistic approach to problem-solving.
4. Possesses strong critical thinking and self-reflection skills.

1. Capable of initiating the practical application of user-centered methods and techniques to address various professional problems.
2. Demonstrates openness to independently monitoring technical, technological, legal, and human-related developments in their field.
3. Able to autonomously mobilize theoretical and practical knowledge and skills, and, when necessary, collaborate effectively with members of interdisciplinary teams to achieve set goals.

The course is delivered in the form of lectures, supplemented by case study analysis, practical examples, and field observation (hospitation) in institutions specialized in supporting users with special needs. The course places a strong emphasis on interactivity, student reflection, and group work.

• Szabó Gy. (szerk.): Tervezés speciális felhasználói körök számára. DSGI kiadó Budapest 2002
• Inclusive Design: A Universal Need – Linda L. Nussbaumer (2011)
• The Design of Everyday Things – Donald A. Norman
• EN 17161:2019 – Design for All – Accessibility following a Design for All approach in products, goods and services

Completion of individual assignments, participation in group work, and presentation of a semester project.

Individual assignments – application of theoretical knowledge to concrete case studies, completed individually or in pairs (30%) Small-group project work – development and documentation of a design proposal tailored to the needs of a specific user group (40%) Project presentation – visual and oral presentation of the project, reflecting principles of Design for All and accessible design (20%)

• Évközi beadandó feladatok: 30
• Kiscsoportos projektmunka: 40
• Projektprezentáció : 30
• összesen: 100

A pótlás a TVSz szerint elvégezhető.

Consulted with the Faculty Student Representative Committee, approved by the Vice Dean for Education, valid from: 07.07.2024.

A félév során végigvett témák az alábbiak.