Hello, students all around the world! I teach barrier-free (accessible) classes to elementary and middle school students in Japan. I’m writing this article to share information about barrier-free (accessible) initiatives in Japan with you. I hope this Japanese barrier-free (accessible) information will inspire you to think about accessibility in your own country!
Quiz
This barrier-free (accessible) nail clipper allows you to cut your nails without holding the clipper. Why is this possible?
Answer
Because you can cut your nails while it’s placed on a table.
Image source: Koga Co., Ltd. website (https://www.coocan.com/netshop/item/detail.php?page_id=10361)
About Japan’s Barrier-Free (Accessible) Nail Clipper
In Japan, we value creating tools that everyone can use easily. This nail clipper was born from that idea. While ordinary nail clippers are held in your hand to use, this nail clipper has a special shape that allows you to use it while it’s placed on a table.
Why is this Barrier-Free (Accessible)?
- People with weak hand strength can use it: Since there’s no need to lift the nail clipper, people with weak hand strength can use it easily.
- Can be used with one hand: It’s convenient for people who have difficulty using one of their hands, as it can be used while placed on a table.
- Easy to use for children and the elderly: Since there’s no need to hold it, small children and the elderly can use it safely.
Barrier-Free (Accessible) Around the World
The idea of creating tools that everyone can use easily is spreading around the world. This is called “Universal Design.” In America and Europe too, many tools are being made that are easy to use for the elderly and people with disabilities.
How About in Your Country?
- What shape are the nail clippers in your country?
- Do you know of any other tools that are easy for everyone to use?
- If you were to make a new nail clipper, what features would you add to make it easier to use?
What We Can Do for a Barrier-Free (Accessible) Society
- Let’s pay attention to see if people around us are having trouble.
- If you find a tool that seems difficult to use, think about how it could be made easier to use.
- Discuss ideas for tools that everyone can use easily with your friends and family.
Barrier-Free (Accessible) Exploration Team
Like the barrier-free (accessible) nail clipper we learned about today, try to find tools around you that have been designed to be easy for everyone to use. When you find one, observe carefully what kind of design features it has. Then, think about who these features might be helpful for.
An Important Request to Everyone
This article is based on experiences and ideas from Japan. Barrier-free (accessible) initiatives and ideas may 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. I’m not trying to force Japanese ideas or my own ideas on you. Also, please always prioritize safety and act with trusted adults. Please keep this in mind.
Also, this article simplifies explanations with the main purpose of generating interest in barrier-free (accessible) design rather than being strictly accurate. For accurate information, please check the websites of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (Japan) or relevant agencies in other countries.
For inquiries → https://lahainars.com/contact/
Please note that I am not very good at English, so please inquire with simple and short English sentences.
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