Research

Design for Deaf Accessibility

Breaking barrier, shaping future

A seminar research paper highlighting the ongoing accessibility challenges faced by deaf individuals, aiming to inspire inclusive design and foster better support in educational and business environments.

Timeline

November - December 2022

Process

Research Writing

Problem Statement

Deaf individuals are blocked from fully participating and contributing in educational, public service and digital environments due to lack of support from inclusivity and accessible systems.

Objective

To identify major accessibility challenges faced by the deaf community and develop inclusive design strategies informed by DeafSpace principles, web standards, sign language, and assistive tools.

Deaf people often feel invisible and voiceless in a hearing world. The eyes and brain get tired, affecting participation in education and discussion. Design for deaf accessibility requires awareness of the deaf experience to develop ways to improve universal accessibility.

Accessibility Case

Why do deaf students experience cognitive overload and fatigue with interpreting and CART services in classrooms, instead of enhancing learning?

Students must simultaneously process information from several sources - the professor, slides, interpreter, and CART system, which are physically separated in space. This multitasking demands excessive cognitive effort, hindering understanding and highlighting the need to reevaluate accessibility strategies for improved learning outcomes.
Choosing a good place for the professor, and interpreter in relation to the slides and where the deaf person is sitting allows for the best visual vantage point.

Image Source: Roach, John. “AI Technology Helps Students Who Are Deaf Learn.” Microsoft | The AI Blog, 11 May 2018.

What can help reduce the cognitive challenges deaf students face with interpreting and CART services?

Applying DeafSpace principles can improve classroom design for clearer visual access. Placing the professor, interpreter, and visual materials within the same line of sight allows deaf students to process information more easily and focus on learning without cognitive strain.

What is DeafSpace?

DeafSpace is an architectural design concept developed by Deaf architect Hansel Bauman at Gallaudet University in 2005. It focuses on designing environments that support visual communication and foster a strong culture. It creates inclusive and visually accessible spaces that promote identity and community for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in order to enhance easier visual access and interaction.
The DeafSpace is applied the building of Gallaudent University.

Image Source: Sorenson Language and Communication Center (SLCC), Gallaudet University in Washington, DC

5 Principles of Design Space

Deaf people have conversation in a good light and blue color in the room.
Light & Color
Deaf people is sitting at U shaped table, and seeing each other using sign language.
Sensory reach
Three persons are using sign language and looking at each other, it's called Space and Proximity.
Space and proximity
Deaf people use assistive devices, such as hearing aids or cochlear implants, to enhance sound. These devices can often amplify reflected sound waves, which can be distracting and even painful.
Acoustics
Corridor intersections are recommended to give a visual warning.
Mobility
Want to know more about web accessibility, DeafSpace, subtitles, Linguistics of sign language, speech-to-text applications?
Read the Seminar Paper

Reflection

Designing for Inclusion: Enhancing Accessibility

Personal Impact on Design
My personal experience with communication barriers have deeply influenced my approach to accessible design. These experiences have provided valuable insights to explore design solutions for accessibility that are not only functional but come from a personal passion and a purpose.
Overcoming Research Challenges
Navigating a lack of resources and organizing my thoughts was a challenge, reflecting a worldwide lack of support for the deaf. This project highlighted the critical need for inclusive support systems in education, healthcare and public services. Feedback from the deaf community was gathered with empathy, offering valuable insights from their experience and recommendations for improvement.
Exploring Accessibility for the Deaf Community
This research provided an opportunity to evaluate various aspects of accessibility including DeafSpace, linguistics of sign language, and speech-to-text applications. It highlighted the importance of incorporating DeafSpace principles to create the design solutions that are inclusive, and offering a deeper understanding of how design can improve accessibility.
Advocating for an inclusive and accessible future
I am passionate about the potential of Deaf Space principles in architecture to make the world more inclusive. This paper is aimed to inspire architects and designers to prioritize accessibility in their work, creating environments that are inclusive, welcoming and accessible to all individuals with disabilities.

Next up: Another Work

Rijksmuseum Website- In the progress

Let’s make something together,

Get in touch

© 2025 Radhika Mehra

LinkedIn
Resume
Arrow up