Nearly 60% of educators reported that their blind and low vision students could not access at least one classroom digital learning tool.
35% of educators reported their students could not access at least two tools.
Families reported their children used an average of 4.9 different digital tools or programs during the pandemic. On average, 2.7 were said to be inaccessible.
What are the consequences of digital learning tools that are not fully accessible?
- Students are unable to complete required assignments.
- Students need continuous support from a family member to complete work.
- Students feel frustrated, discouraged, or excluded because they cannot participate and access lessons like their peers.
- Blind parents cannot fully support their children.
- Teachers have to invest extra resources in creating alternatives.
Data Source: Three Access and Engagement studies conducted by the American Foundation for the Blind in Spring 2020, Fall 2020, and Summer/Fall 2021.
In Their Own Words: Experiences of Teachers and Parents
“I’ve become an advocate, it’s my job to make the world accessible until he can do it himself. I’ve developed a great deal of anger, I’m just done. The ADA’s been law for 30 years and some people don’t care.” —Family member of a 12-year-old blind child with other disabilities
“Tech sucks. Nearly all of [...]