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
Research and Resources
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