Introduction
Hello, elementary school students from around the world! I teach barrier-free (accessible) design and give lessons to elementary and middle school students in Japan. I’m writing this article to share information about barrier-free (accessible) situations in Japan with all of you overseas. Let’s use this information about barrier-free (accessible) design in Japan as a starting point to think about barrier-free (accessible) design in your own country!
Barrier-Free (Accessible) Quiz and Explanation
Alright, everyone. I’ve prepared an interesting quiz for you today!
Quiz: In Japan, there’s a special chime for people who have difficulty hearing. This chime doesn’t just make a sound, but it’s also designed to [ ]. What word goes in the blank?
Answer: Light up
Explanation: The correct answer is “light up”! This chime is called a “light-up chime.” While ordinary chimes only use sound to alert people of visitors, this special chime not only makes a sound but also flashes a bright light. This way, people who have difficulty hearing can also know when someone is at the door. The light comes from both the front and sides of the chime, making it easy to notice from anywhere in the house.
In Japan, we’re trying to increase the number of barrier-free (accessible) facilities like this to create a society where everyone can live comfortably. The light-up chime is not just useful for people with hearing difficulties, but also for anyone who might not hear the sound when listening to music or using a vacuum cleaner.
Global Situation
Around the world, there’s a growing movement to create environments that are easy for everyone to use. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has decided to aim for a society where all people can live equally. In countries like the United States and in Europe, various innovations are being made, such as warning devices that use both sound and light, and sign language interpretation services.
What About Your Country?
Now, how about in your country?
- Are there any special facilities for people who have difficulty hearing?
- Have you seen any useful facilities in schools or public places?
- If you could create a new barrier-free (accessible) facility, what would you like to make?
Try thinking about these questions with your family or teachers.
What We Can Do
Even as elementary school students, there are many things you can do to help create a barrier-free (accessible) society:
- Understand and respect the differences of people around you.
- If you see someone having trouble, try to kindly offer help.
- Use barrier-free (accessible) facilities with care.
- Try discussing barrier-free (accessible) design with your family and friends.
Barrier-Free (Accessible) Explorer Team
Now, let’s explore your town! Try to find barrier-free (accessible) facilities in schools, public facilities, and stores. You might find light-up chimes, ramps for wheelchair users, or tactile paving for visually impaired people.
If you find any, observe how they are being used. And if you don’t find any barrier-free (accessible) facilities, it might be fun to think about where they would be useful.
Your “awareness” is the first step in creating a society that’s kind to everyone!
Final Note
Lastly, I have an important request for all of you.
This article is based on experiences and ideas from Japan. Approaches and ideas about barrier-free (accessible) design might differ depending on the country and culture. Please discuss with your family and teachers about how things are in your country. Let’s think about a world where everyone can live comfortably while respecting our differences. This is not meant to force Japanese or my personal ideas on you. Also, please always prioritize safety and act with trusted adults. Please keep this in mind.
Also, this article aims to generate interest in barrier-free (accessible) design rather than provide precise information, so the standards are generalized. For accurate information, please check the websites of Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism or specialized agencies in your country.
For inquiries → https://lahainars.com/contact/
Note: As I am not proficient in English, please inquire with simple and short English sentences.
コメント