Document Type

Article

Rights

Available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial Share Alike 4.0 International Licence

Disciplines

5.3 EDUCATIONAL SCIENCES

Publication Details

Universal Design & Higher Education in Transformation Congress,

30th October -2nd November 2018, Dublin Castle

Abstract

Abstract. Abstract, The World Tourism Organization promotes Accessible Tourism with aiming at developing the tourist industry through accessibility, sustainability and technology from a social innovation perspective, thus making it crucial for education institutions to take interest in all relevant changes brought about by the changing needs of society. Tourism is a key driving force regarding socioeconomic progress, as well as an activity that has comprehensive impact in all service areas. Therefore, taking into consideration that universal accessibility and design for all individuals makes life more confortable, it is essential to provide certain guarantees so individuals can live with full rights and take part in economic, social and cultural matters equally. Training professionals is one of these guarantees and it is at the same time a challenge, a need and an opportunity for tourism to contribute to the fulfilment of those individuals who take part in it. Population diversity must be recognised by improving the access of disabled individuals to products and services, as well as by setting common accessibility standards in accordance to the European Accessibility Act. In conclusion, the aim is to achieve Inclusive Tourism that will enable the creation of a convergence of interests for the sake of our society. This implies developing accessibility training plans for professionals in the tourist sector so they become the key success of a fully inclusive tourism. Hence achieving a tourist industry that complies with the Official University Education System, in which study programmes will take into account the fact that every professional activity must embed transversal competences in Universal Accessibility and Design for All.


Included in

Education Commons

Share

COinS