As part of their continuing study of project-based learning, Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School fifth-graders enjoyed an in-house field trip with Georgia Tech for a special program, “Using Universal Design to Engineer a More Inclusive World.”

Tech alumna Marnie Harris and current student Trey Quinn introduced the concept of universal design, which is a key focus of the Georgia Tech Center for Inclusive Design & Innovation. Trey, who uses a walker/wheelchair, shared some of the challenges he faces daily and how he has been able to use assistive technology. Understanding that some people who have disabilities cannot use everyday objects, such as spoons, doorknobs or even jackets as they were originally designed, students set to work to improve the items.

Students worked in small groups and selected one item that they wanted to redesign. They discussed the goal of the item and how it might be limiting to someone and then listed 10 ways to improve it. The items they chose included pencils, water bottles, can openers, door handles, backpacks and escalators.

They narrowed their ideas to three and then shared their ideas with another small group to gain feedback. Moving back to their original groups, they selected one idea and drew their new and improved designs. The students also had to think about contingencies in case their product failed due to a power outage or other mishap.

Groups took turns presenting their item and redesign to the room. One group designed a jacket with magnetized closures while another created a door with face-recognition ID plate that opens automatically, powered by solar energy. Another group designed an escalator that can accommodate a wheelchair or stroller.

The project-based learning series in fifth grade encourages students to ask essential questions and seek solutions to a wide variety of problems. The series also ties in with a community-based speaker series in which students are learning about issues and challenges in the world.