Testimonials

Accessibility, Inclusive Design and Me

“My first degree was in psychology and it was through working with disabled people (including my son) that I became Winnipeg’s first Universal Design Coordinator. The A&ID course has supported me every step of the way: helping me develop my thinking in a supportive and stimulating environment; and enhancing my academic skills. My dissertation was very practical; developing the Reciprocal Conciliation model for engagement between designers and users to achieve standard specifications for the construction industry. I now sit on Canadian national and provincial standards committees and am looking forward to presenting at major conferences in London and Japan this year”.

Judy Redmond, MSc with Distinction (2010), Universal Design Coordinator, City of Winnipeg, Canada

“I work as a Local Authority Building Standards Surveyor on the Shetland Islands, one of the most remote parts of the UK. Before starting out on the course, I had worked within the construction industry for over 30 years, but, without a degree, was unable to gain membership of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). My PgCert helped me secure Incorporated membership and then, having completed my PgDip, I achieved full Chartered status. My qualifications have been recognised by the CIOB as equivalent to an S/NVQ Level 4 or 5 and by my employer as grounds for advancement to the top of the salary grade for my post.”

Stewart Douglas, PgCert (2009), PgDip (2010), Building Standards Surveyor, Shetland Islands Council, UK

“As an Occupational Therapist, I wanted to understand the wider challenges facing disabled people in living independently. A&ID offered me a really flexible learning path, through excellent tutor-supported e-learning, while I continued working full time. I particularly enjoyed the Access Auditing module, as it helped relate theory to practice. It was wonderful to graduate in front of my two young children”.

Joanne Molloy, PgDip (2008), Community Occupational Therapist, UK

“Having started out as a station manager with no undergraduate degree, I joined the A&ID community through the University of Salford's Assessment of Experience route. I still work within the rail industry, but am now the designated Accessibility and Inclusion Manager for Southeastern Railways. I regard my dissertation as the best workout my brain ever had and was thrilled to see this recognised by an award for Best Overall Performance”.

Justin Ryan, MSc with Distinction (2009), Accessibility and Inclusion Manager, Southeastern Railways, UK