Accessible Digital Education Is Possible

Background

Existing digital accessibility challenges for persons with visual impairment escalated as COVID-19 prompted the switch to distance learning. Digital education services offered by the public and private sectors are not designed in compliance with universal design principles, causing issues from login problems to navigating the platforms. Course contents and materials were not provided with accessibility solutions such as voice description, preventing students with visual impairment from receiving quality distance learning services. Therefore, accessible digital learning environments and contents are needed.

Project Goals

• A four-day workshop will be organized with 32 participants, including persons with visual impairment.
• Following the workshop, an "Accessible Educational Content Development Principles Report" will be prepared, along with a policy document for linguistic and scientific educational departments in compliance with inclusive education and universal design principles to accommodate the needs and expectations of persons with visual impairment.
• A total of 120 accessible course videos will be prepared with 24 teachers of eight disciplines.
• An education portal in compliance with accessibility standards will also be prepared.
• A promotional video, digital stories, and infographics will be prepared, and social media campaigns will be organized on accessibility issues for visually impaired children and youth in quality distance learning.
• Two press conferences and a petition will be organized to inform the public.
• Advocacy and lobbying efforts will be organized towards relevant public and civil society organizations to disseminate project findings and outcomes.