Grade 8 Students Explore Inclusive Design at UWCSEA
Communications Team, UWCSEA
20 January 2025
Grade 8 students at UWCSEA Dover have recently completed an inspiring Inclusive Design project, showcasing their ability to combine empathy, creativity, and technical skills to address real-world challenges. The goal of this project was to help students develop an understanding of designing inclusively, with a focus on creating innovative products to assist individuals who are physically or visually less able with everyday tasks.
The project began with students immersing themselves in the experiences of those with physical or visual impairments.
By restricting their own abilities, students were able to empathise deeply and consider the challenges faced by others. This foundation of empathy became the driving force behind their designs. Students learned to use advanced 3D modelling software, Fusion 360, for the first time. Despite the initial learning curve, they quickly adapted and were able to model their ideas on screen and 3D print prototypes. This hands-on experience not only enhanced their technical skills but also reinforced the iterative nature of design.
Watch students engage in peer feedback and see their designs in action.
A highlight of the project was the peer assessment activity, where students created exhibition posters to showcase their designs and shared their work with classmates.
This activity served two purposes: to celebrate the students’ achievements and to provide valuable feedback to refine their designs further. The peer assessment was structured around evaluating the originality and functionality of the designs, emphasising the importance of balancing both aspects. Through this process, students gained insights into their own work and that of their peers, learning the art of giving and receiving constructive feedback. These skills will serve them well in future projects and beyond. As one student remarked, “Being able to 3D print my ideas and iterate based on feedback really helped me understand how to improve my design.”
The project culminated in an exhibition where students demonstrated their creations and explained how their designs could empower users. Among the standout moments were intricate designs that combined aesthetics with practicality, exemplifying the potential of inclusively designed products to benefit all users, not just those with disabilities.
The students created a range of innovative and functional prototypes, including assistive devices, tools, and accessibility solutions aimed at empowering individuals with physical or visual impairments. These examples demonstrate their ability to integrate creativity and empathy into practical designs that could make a tangible difference in daily life.
The project website serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the Inclusive Design unit. It includes an overview of the project objectives, examples of student work, detailed explanations of the design process, and reflections from students. Visitors can explore how empathy and creativity come together in innovative design solutions, and gain insights into the tools and techniques students used throughout the project.
This Inclusive Design project aligns seamlessly with UWCSEA’s mission to inspire inclusion and global awareness. By designing products that empower the less able, students explored the concept that inclusively designed products can serve everyone. As they reflected on their work, students recognised that thoughtful design has the power to break down barriers and create a more inclusive world.