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Bridging Engineering and Community for Inclusive Innovation

Engineering students and members of the local blind and low-vision community come together through the practicum experience of ENGR 103, a User-Centered Design course at University of San Diego.

Together, they create a democratic, reciprocal, and mutually beneficial partnership that utilizes engineering design principles along with various frameworks for equity-centered design, to redefine everyday experiences for more independent, inclusive and equitable participation by people who have low-vision or blindness.

Explore this site to learn more about the collaborative process, the projects, and the impact of the Community-Centered Design (CCD) Practicum. Witness how engineering ingenuity and community insights come together to foster a more accessible world.

A group of people, mainly young men, are standing in a line on a dirt road. The scene includes four men, one of whom is wearing a sun hat and holding a megaphone. Additionally, there is a dog present. The men are wearing various types of footwear, including sneakers. The background consists of trees and a trail. One man is standing with his arms crossed. The overall color scheme of the image is earthy tones with accents of dark shades. The image has a relaxed and casual vibe, capturing a moment of camaraderie among friends enjoying the outdoors.

In this image, we see a group of people sitting in what appears to be a classroom setting. The room is furnished with chairs, a projector screen, a desk, and a cabinet or shelf. The individuals are engaged in a presentation, with one person standing and speaking while the others are seated. Various objects, such as bottles, a hat, a flag, and sneakers, are present in the room. The color scheme mainly consists of shades of grey and black, creating a professional and formal atmosphere. The image conveys a sense of learning, focus, and collaboration among the individuals.

Research

Our Current Focus

Ongoing Design Challenge

April 12, 2025

Join us in re-imagining everyday experiences for more independent, inclusive, and equitable participation by people who have low vision or blindness. Our current focus is on defining and solving design challenges related to this area. Learn more about our projects below.

Current Design Challenge

April 12, 2025

We are currently working on a design challenge related to re-imagining navigation for people with low vision or blindness. Learn more about this project below.

Upcoming Design Challenge

April 12, 2025

We are excited to announce our upcoming design challenge related to re-imagining grocery shopping for people with low vision or blindness. Stay tuned for more information.