Supporting Workplace Success: Addressing Barriers to Assistive Technology Use for People Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision
This info brief looks at research conducted by the National Research & Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision (NRTC), which is funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR). The brief highlights key findings and implications related to the barriers and potential solutions for people who are blind or have low vision (B/LV) using AT in the workplace. The information in this brief is intended for employers/businesses, disability advocates and professionals, and people who are B/LV.
Overview
- Strong AT skills and braille proficiency are associated with employment among people who are B/LV.
- Employed adults who are B/LV frequently rely on computers, mobile devices, and a wide range of AT, but they continue to face barriers such as limited access to high‑quality AT training or software with sufficient accessibility features.
- Research shows that many workers must teach themselves AT, despite preferring hands‑on instruction, and often purchase essential technologies used at work themselves.
- Addressing training gaps, improving accessibility of workplace systems, and expanding access to core AT may improve efficiency, job readiness, and workplace success.