The Effect of Disability Rights Education Utilizing Universal Design Principles on Young Children’s Disability Rights Sensitivity and Disability Acceptance Attitudes

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of disability rights education, utilizing the principles of universal design, on young children's sensitivity to disability rights and their attitudes toward disability acceptance. Method: A total of 14 disability rights education sessions were conducted over 7 weeks for 24 young children. The changes in the young children's sensitivity to disability rights and their attitudes toward disability acceptance were analyzed using paired sample t-tests through pre- and post-tests. Results: The disability rights education utilizing universal design principles had a positive effect on young children's sensitivity to disability rights and their attitudes toward disability acceptance. Conclusion: Through disability rights education that utilizes the principles of universal design, young children recognize that all people have equal rights regardless of their varying abilities. This enhances young children's understanding and acceptance of individuals with disabilities, serving as evidence for the continued necessity of disability rights education for young children.