Universal Design: Clarifying a Common Vocabulary

Abstract

The topic of universal design has become more prevalent in the educational and consumer literature over the last decade. Some of this literature utilizes multiple terms synonymously with universal design. The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of experts in universal design regarding definitions of universal design and related terminology. Questionnaires were mailed to 55 experts in the field of universal design. These sample members were current and former members of the National Advisory Council at the Center for Universal Design, other leaders in universal design organizations, and authors located in the literature. Twenty-three useable questionnaires were returned. The findings revealed a general sense of agreement with the most prevalent definition of universal design. Several other terms had a stronger degree of agreement than others. Experts' written comments noted the overlap or repetitive nature of terms. Dictionaries were used for further clarification. As a result this research clarified a common terminology by revising two definitions, eliminating one term and its definition, and illustrating through a new model the interrelationships among terms.

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