• Journal of The Korea Institute of Healthcare Architecture
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• v.30 no.3
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• pp.57-65
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• 2024

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the barrier-free environment at Fukui University's Bunkyo Campus, focusing on the mobility of students using manual wheelchairs. Methods: Data were collected on architectural plans, barrier-free facilities, and class schedules at Fukui University's Bunkyo Campus. Measurements included step heights, slopes, and the accessibility of classroom furniture for manual wheelchairs. Mobility was assessed by timing the movement between 19 classrooms used in the second semester of 2022 during breaks and summer vacation. Results: This study highlights that while Fukui University's Bunkyo Campus has some barrier-free buildings, significant improvements are needed. Issues include inadequate elevators, hand operated doors, and multi-purpose restrooms, as well as inefficient classroom's furniture layouts for wheelchair users. To enhance accessibility, future efforts should focus on reducing elevator wait times, automating doors, and optimizing classroom designs. Implications: The study indicates that Fukui University's Bunkyo Campus needs significant improvements in barrier-free accessibility. It provides foundational data for future detailed planning and implementation. Enhanced campus accessibility and better classroom designs are crucial for equal learning environments. Similar issues may exist at other Japanese universities, warranting broader investigation.

• Journal of the Korean Society of Physical Medicine
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• v.10 no.1
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• pp.23-35
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• 2015

PURPOSE: People with physical disabilities such as cerebral palsy usually experience obstacles when interacting with computer through conventional keyboard because of their motor disabilities. The purpose of this study is empirically compare of text entry(alphabet and word) speed and accuracy using the three different keyboard type on four students(male 2 and female 2) with cerebral palsy. METHODS: This research design used a replicated single-case experimental approach to compare the individual performance. An alternating treatments design was used to examine the effectiveness of standard QWERTY keyboard and alternative keyboard(mini and big keyboard) on computer access for students with cerebral palsy. To avoid changes in posture that influence a keyboard character entry training and evaluation was carried out using his sitting in a wheelchair. Compass software program used in this study as an assessment tool to measure speed and accuracy when performance of text entry(alphabet and word). This was repeated until the stable status of reaction time. RESULTS: As a result, the alternative keyboard seems to be the most effective device for students with cerebral palsy to perform text entry. But various factors such as peculiarity of motor disabilities, experience and preferences of the user are heavily related. CONCLUSION: Thus, we must perform the objective and systematic assessment for computer access and if sustained training is accomplished, it could to improve speed and accuracy of text entry(alphabet and word).