To access the Michael C. Carlos Hall building via an accessible route, it is necessary to take a longer and potentially confusing route. Upon arriving at the front entrance, there is a small sign marking the beginning of the route (below left).
The sign itself is fairly self-explanatory; the clear, large lettering is accompanied by the International Symbol of Access. By adding this internationally recognized symbol, the sign enables readers who may not be able to read English to understand the sign. However, the sign does not include Braille which excludes individuals who may have visual impairments from interacting with the sign. Aside from this exclusion, the sign is clearly visible and easy to understand. |
The main problem with taking the accessible route to enter Carlos Hall is the placement of the “accessible route” signs. The first sign at the front entrance to the Carlos building points down the sidewalk to the right. The sidewalk heads straight until it reaches a point where one could go right, continue straight ahead, or turn left. |
Using common sense, it would seem appropriate to turn left as this would loop back around and head to the back of Carlos Hall. However, to be sure of this it would have been necessary to see a small sign on the opposite side of the lawn, a difficult task for some with visual impairments. |
Besides the confusing signage placement the rest of the route is clear, and the accessible entrance is clearly marked both on the door itself and by another sign. (For more photographs of this route, click here)