Healthcare-Platform - Inclusive Working and Living

Abstract

Purpose The objective of establishing the "Healthcare Platform - Inclusive Working and Living" at the Frankfurt UAS is to create a space where students from diverse disciplines can gain insight into the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses. They will also explore innovative solutions and advancements in the architectural, technical, social, and healthcare sectors. By raising awareness and understanding of these issues, the platform aims to foster inclusivity and contribute to the realization of the rights outlined in relevant international conventions, such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The platform will serve as a space to sensitize students to the realities of living with various disabilities and medical conditions. Through interactive exhibits, presentations, and discussions, students will be encouraged to empathize with individuals facing these challenges and to explore ways in which technology, design, and societal approaches can improve their quality of life. Furthermore, the platform will facilitate discussions on ethical considerations, privacy concerns, and the societal implications of inclusive practices. By engaging students from all disciplines, the platform seeks to cultivate a more inclusive mindset and inspire future generations to work towards a more equitable and accessible society. Method The 'Healthcare Platform - Inclusive Working and Living' is based on existing initiatives within the university, such as sensory experiences and simulations, provided in the interdisciplinary master's program Inclusive Design. These experiences include wearing age simulation suits, using wheelchairs, and simulating various eye diseases and hearing loss. With the current project, the platform will expand its offerings to include virtual reality simulations of disabilities and chronic illnesses. VR-Simulators for visual impairments, hearing impairments, and mobility impairments are currently under development. Interdisciplinary collaboration between different programs should enable the widest possible range of teaching, covering different perspectives. Results and Discussion The platform offers numerous benefits in promoting inclusivity, awareness and understanding of disability and chronic illness among students. However, the establishment and maintenance require significant resources such as financial support, technological infrastructure, and staff. Limited resources can impede the platform's ability to fully achieve its goals and expand its offerings. Additionally, while the platform focuses on inclusivity, it may encounter accessibility challenges within the technological infrastructure. Careful planning and adherence to accessibility guidelines are necessary to ensure that all exhibitions, presentations, and discussions are accessible. Sustaining interest and engagement in the platform will also be an ongoing challenge. Without continued support and involvement from students, faculty, and departments, the platform's impact may diminish over time. Furthermore, interdisciplinary collaboration, while a strength, also presents challenges in overcoming disciplinary boundaries and fostering effective communication and collaboration.