BACKGROUND

Existing digital accessibility challenges for persons with visual impairment only escalated as the COVID-19 prompted the switch to distance learning. As the digital education services offered by the public and private sectors are not designed in compliance with the universal design principles, they cause many issues from login problems to surfing on the platform. As the course contents and materials were not provided with accessibility solutions such as voice description, students with visual impairment cannot receive quality distance learning services. Therefore, we need accessible digital learning environments and contents.

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 the linguistic and scientific educational departments in compliance with the 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 the accessibility standards will also be prepared.
• A promotional video, digital stories and infographics will be prepared and social media campaigns will be organized on the accessibility issues for the visually impaired children and youth in quality distance learning.
• Two press conferences and a petition will be organized to inform the public.
• With a view to disseminate project findings and outcome, advocacy and lobbying efforts will be organized towards relevant public and civil society organizations.

Testimonials