Reimagining School Spaces: Voices of Children with Physical Disabilities from an Informal Settlement in Mumbai

This study applied a case study approach to explore the participation experiences of children with physical disabilities in a community school in Mumbai to understand how schools might improve their students' meaningful participation and social interaction. This study identified three categories of focus: (1) physically accessible and safe school spaces, (2) informal spaces for community and social engagement and socialization, and (3) future directions for school design. We offer specific recommendations for school designers to value children's voices and incorporate their disability-related needs in the design of school spaces. We outline key design considerations to create safe, accessible, and engaging school spaces.