Leveraging Virtual Reality Simulation to Engage Non-Disabled People in Reflection on Access Barriers for Disabled People

TL;DR

This paper explores using VR simulation of a traffic hub to engage non-disabled individuals in understanding access barriers faced by disabled people, aiming to foster reflection and societal advocacy.

Contribution

It introduces a VR simulation of a real-world environment with visual enhancements to promote awareness of accessibility issues among non-disabled users.

Findings

VR can effectively raise awareness of access barriers.

Interactive VR encourages reflection on societal accessibility.

Potential for VR to foster inclusive dialogue.

Abstract

Disabled people experience many barriers in daily life, but non-disabled people rarely pause to reflect and engage in joint action to advocate for access. In this demo, we explore the potential of Virtual Reality (VR) to sensitize non-disabled people to barriers in the built environment. We contribute a VR simulation of a major traffic hub in Karlsruhe, Germany, and we employ visual embellishments and animations to showcase barriers and potential removal strategies. Through our work, we seek to engage users in conversation on what kind of environment is accessible to whom, and what equitable participation in society requires. Additionally, we aim to expand the understanding of how VR technology can promote reflection through interactive exploration.