Enhancing Bloom software with accessibility features to allow users to create “born accessible” reading materials in underserved languages.
Project Name
Enhancing Bloom to Boost Accessible Books for All
Location Implemented
Global
Technology Used
Assistive Technology, Software/Apps
Competition Entered
Book Boost: Access for All Challenge
Reading Skill Targeted
Reading Environment
Status
Winner
Amount Award
$162,000
Collaborators/Partners
All Bloom users, and for the pilot project, Resources for the Blind in the Philippines.
The Challenge
Despite the importance of books in boosting foundational literacy skills, for the estimated 19 million children globally who are blind or have low vision, or the millions of children with other disabilities that impact their use of traditionally printed materials, the shortage of quality books in accessible formats is severe. Increasing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of creating accessible books in the title development phase ("born accessible") is critical to increasing the number of accessible books.
The Big Idea
SIL LEAD enhanced its widely used Bloom software with accessibility features, allowing Bloom users to create “born accessible” reading materials in underserved languages. Bloom support services were also enhanced, including an online dashboard system to track title use, training materials, and a Bloom library website that meets accessibility standards.
Featured Innovation
Bloom
Bloom software makes it easy to create children's books and translate them into multiple languages, or create accessible and sign language books.
Blogs and Media
News Byte // December 20, 2022ACR GCD featured in Global Book Alliance’s Partner Spotlight Series
Research and Resources
Literacy and Learning Without Limits: The Tools You Need to Ensure Children with Disabilities are Included in Your Reading Programs
Learn about open source resources like book creation software, online libraries, books, reading assessments and more, developed by winners of the All Children Reading Grand Challenge.Book Boost: Tools for Accessible Publishing
Learn how to use free resources for creating accessible books for children with disabilities.Bloom Resources for Creating Accessible Books
Learn how to use Bloom's accessibility features, including image description and sign language tools.Bloom
Bloom software makes it easy to create children's books and translate them into multiple languages, or create accessible and sign language books.Bloom Training Resources
Training guides available in English, French and Spanish instruct on how to use Bloom and train others to use the software.
Connect with the Innovator
