Making Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Education Accessible

Presented at 8:00am in WB IV on Wednesday, November 15, 2017.

Speaker(s)

• Shilpi Kapoor, CEO, 247 Accessible Documents

Session Details

• Length of Session: 1-hr
• Format: Lecture
• Expertise Level: All Levels
• Type of session: General Conference

Summary

Several organizations are exploring the potential of implementation of Virtual Reality(VR) & Augmented Reality(AR) in education. VR/AR in education enhances the way content is presented making learning & teaching effective & engaging as compared to traditional instruction methods. How can we ensure that the VR/AR for education is accessible to all?

Abstract

With the rapid development of Virtual Reality(VR) & Augmented Reality(AR) interfaces, the practical applicability of AR/VR in education has been one of the hot topics of discussion. The potential of implementing VR and AR technologies in different levels of education is beginning to be realized as it has the power to capture the imagination of students and students can now experience the subject matter like never before. However, are students with different types of disabilities, using different types of assistive technology also being able to experience this potential?

In this presentation, the speaker would like to discuss the accessibility issues with AR and VR in education and share ideas about designing AR and VR such that they are accessible to all including students with disabilities. The presentation would discuss some of the industry best practices and case studies from around the globe focusing on developing accessible and inclusive VR and AR interface.

Keypoints

1. Overview of how VR and AR are being used to enhance education and training
2. Versatility of VR/AR applications in education & its benefits for students including those with disabilities
3. Best practices and Guidelines for making accessible VR and AR in education

Disability Areas

Cognitive/Learning, Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Mobility, Vision

Topic Areas

Alternate Format, Teaching about Accessibility in Curriculum, Uncategorized

Speaker Bio(s)

Shilpi Kapoor

Shilpi Kapoor is the founder of BarrierBreak and 247 Accessible Documents who believes passionately that technology can be the game changer for inclusion. She is motivated to ensuring that as the organization scales, it impacts the lives of disabled people globally and has developed NewzHook - Worlds 1st inclusive news app. Shilpi is also the OpenAir Advisory Chair, Knowbility. An Ashoka Fellow and a recipient of "NCPEDP - Shell Helen Keller Award 2008" - Non-disabled role model supporter of increased employment opportunities for people with disabilities, she has successfully built a sustainable business model in disability products and services.