Information access mechanism for visually impaired students in higher educational institutions: A study

Abstract

The present study identified information access mechanisms for visually impaired students in select universities in Delhi, India. Study has ascertained the availability of information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure in five major universities. The study applied purposive sampling method and collected data through a questionnaire from select universities. It was found that facilities for visually impaired students in higher educational institutions are very basic and it is difficult for visually impaired students to conduct study and research with existing ICT infrastructure. Higher educational institutions in Delhi do not have the infrastructure suited to the needs of visually impaired students to facilitate efficient services. University libraries in Delhi are facing difficulties due to lack of funds and trained staff to deliver services to visually impaired students. Library and information science professionals face inhibits in providing services to visually impaired students because of lack of suitable equipment(s), ‘maintenance/updating of assistive software(s) and devices, time consuming scanning process and lack of awareness among visually impaired students about library resources and services.