Abstract
When you don’t have a hand, what could you have instead? This article introduces the impact of inviting youth with disabilities to learn tools and technology to design their own solutions and advocate for their own future. This approach to programming is rooted in a mindset of designing WITH, not FOR. Not only are design outcomes improved when users are incorporated into the process, but this approach has been shown to improve confidence in creating one’s own solutions. These programs include hands-on “design-your-own-body-mod” workshops, as well as a budding inclusive design consultancy led by youth with disabilities. Through this programming, youth not only develop technical and cutting edge skills, confidence, and meaningful solutions, but they also develop a clearer understanding of design and engineering career paths and establish their own network of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) professionals.
Highlights
Global companies such as Microsoft, Nike, and Target have increasingly produced adaptive and inclusive lines of products
The following youth participants were all born with an upper limb difference, and each designed a wearable device for themselves which led to additional opportunities beyond the BOOST workshop
The BOOST approach to programming is rooted in a mindset of designing WITH, not FOR, as participants with disabilities are taught technical and design skills and supported in creating their own solutions
Summary
Global companies such as Microsoft, Nike, and Target have increasingly produced adaptive and inclusive lines of products. This allows design professionals the opportunity to collaborate with youth and learn from them, as they approach the creative process in different and unexpected ways.
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