Making STEM courses more inclusive with lab and lecture hall upgrades

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 16:34:25 -0400
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This summer, UMBC is teaming up with the Maryland Department of Disabilities to upgrade nine teaching labs in the Meyerhoff Chemistry Building—marking a major step in fostering inclusive STEM education. The goal: ensure all students, including wheelchair users and those with various disabilities, can fully participate in core chemistry and biochemistry courses.

What's Changing in the Labs?

Wheelchair-accessible sinks, fume hoods, lab benches, and cabinets

Lowered equipment stations for independent use

A research lab redesigned for accessible hands-on experience

Lecture Hall Upgrades Include:

Wheelchair-accessible seating in multiple locations with fold-down tablets

TV monitors for better visibility for low-vision students

Standing desks and seating variations for diverse body types, pregnant students, and orthopedic needs

Assisted listening tech and designated interpreter areas for students who are Deaf or hard of hearing

Additional accessibility projects include:

Restroom renovations in the Biological Sciences Building

Elevator upgrades across multiple academic buildings

“The Office of Accessibility & Disability Services greatly values our longstanding partnership with Facilities Management to assist us in the mission of inclusive access and elimination of barriers for all UMBC community members,” says Tawny McManus, Assistant Vice President for Accessibility.

Learn how these changes are reshaping inclusion in STEM at UMBC: Read more here.