Emerging Technologies and Accessibility Research:

This project explores the intersection of makerspaces—collaborative workspaces for making, learning, and exploring—and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. My focus for this initial phase was to identify key physical and visual challenges that people with disabilities face when using makerspaces, with the aim of ultimately developing inclusive design solutions.

The final infographic, “Makerspaces and Accessibility,” synthesizes research into a clear and engaging visual format. It highlights the benefits makerspaces can offer—such as skill development and community building—while also calling attention to major accessibility barriers like limited mobility, tool adaptation issues, poor lighting, and complex visual instructions.

This work is the foundation for a broader semester-long research and design project that will continue into a final deliverable focused on solving some of the identified challenges through inclusive design strategies. Future stages will explore adaptive technologies, accessible equipment, and design interventions that support greater participation for all makers.

Deliverables Submitted:

• Infographic Poster (.PDF and .AI formats)

• Annotated list of research sources

Tools Used:

• Adobe Illustrator

• Academic and industry research