Evaluation of accessibility at university campuses within the scope of universal design principles

In the traditional design process, design is made according to the user defined as adult, healthy and standard. However, due to congenital or acquired diseases, accidents and age, physical dimensions, physical strength, perception and ability levels vary and the individual may have difficulty in using the buildings and the environment. In this context, there is a need for arrangements to meet the needs of different users due to changing conditions or disability, and studies are carried out to eliminate the problems of users and improve the existing order. Instead of these arrangements that marginalise users, in recent years, studies have been carried out with universal design principles in design disciplines such as architecture, covering all user groups and aiming to create a suitable and accessible social order for everyone. The basic condition for the disabled and users with differences to participate in social life without any discrimination and marginalisation is related to the accessibility of spaces, structures, urban environments and services. The necessity of providing facilities that will facilitate the lives of users in a way that will be suitable for everyone in changing conditions, including everyone, as well as disadvantaged groups, and the necessity of organising buildings and the environment in a way that includes everyone has led to the understanding of Universal Design. The aim of this study is to evaluate accessibility in university campuses where higher education is given as a constitutional right within the scope of Universal Design principles. It is extremely important that all areas and elements are accessible and usable for all individuals who make up the user diversity of educational spaces, especially university campuses. Within the scope of the study, the suitability and current accessibility status of Siirt University and Ağrı İbrahim Çeçen University campuses for all users were evaluated within the framework of Accessibility Guidelines and TS 9111 Standards and recommendations were presented.