Guest editor:
Stacy M. Kelly, Ed.D., TVI, COMS, CATIS, Professor, Northern Illinois University
Deadline for submissions:
February 28, 2025
Projected publication date:
November-December 2025 issue
Technology, including assistive technology, plays a critical role in enhancing the accessibility and inclusivity of various aspects of life for individuals with blindness and low vision. From education and employment to daily living and social participation, innovative technologies continue to empower individuals with visual impairments to overcome barriers and achieve their full potential. This special issue seeks to explore the latest advancements in technology and the effect of these advancements on the lives of individuals with visual impairments of all ages. JVIB invites innovative research, descriptions of effective practices, conceptual papers, and short reports that discuss advancements and innovations in assistive technology for individuals with visual impairments. Studies that use quantitative or qualitative methods, case studies, mixed methods, and randomized trials are encouraged. International contributions are welcome.
Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
- Accessibility in mobile applications: Investigate the accessibility features and challenges of mobile applications for individuals with visual impairments. Highlight best practices for developers to ensure that mobile apps are inclusive and usable for all users.
- Advancements in tactile graphics technology: Discuss recent developments in tactile graphics technology (e.g., improved printing techniques and tactile displays) that enhance access to visual information for individuals with visual impairments. Explore how these advancements are being used in education, employment, and daily living.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) applications: Explore the role of AI algorithms and machine learning models that enhance the lives of people with visual impairments. Discuss AI-powered image recognition systems, natural language processing tools, and personalized assistive solutions in terms of strengths, barriers, and opportunities for individuals with visual impairments.
- Assistive technology policy and advocacy: Examine policies and advocacy efforts aimed at promoting access to assistive technology for people with visual impairments. Explore applicable disability rights legislation, funding initiatives, and accessibility standards.
- Assistive technology for STEAM (science, technology engineering, art, and math) education: Address the unique challenges faced by students with visual impairments in accessing STEAM education. Highlight assistive technologies and strategies that support their participation and success in STEAM fields.
- Digital accessibility in online learning platforms: Explore the accessibility features and barriers of online learning platforms for individuals with visual impairments. Discuss strategies for ensuring that digital learning materials are accessible, including the use of screen readers, alternative formats, and inclusive design practices.
- Ergonomic design: Explore ergonomic design principles and their application in technology and assistive technology devices. Discuss ergonomic considerations for individuals with visual impairments, such as device size, button placement, and tactile feedback mechanisms.
- Future directions and emerging trends in technology research: Consider future directions and emerging trends, innovation, and policy, including advances in artificial intelligence, wearable computing, computer interfaces, and personalized assistive solutions, and their potential impact on the lives of individuals with visual impairments.
- Haptic feedback devices for accessing digital content: Highlight haptic feedback devices, such as touchscreens and touch-based interfaces. Discuss their potential to improve the usability of touchscreen devices for individuals with visual impairments.
- Innovations in braille technology: Investigate recent advancements in braille technology, such as refreshable braille displays and braille translation software. Discuss how these innovations are expanding access to information and promoting literacy among individuals with visual impairments.
- Multisensory learning environments: Explore multisensory learning environments that accommodate diverse learning styles and sensory preferences. Discuss interactive learning materials and tactile learning aids.
- Navigation and wayfinding systems for indoor environments: Examine the latest innovations in navigation and wayfinding systems designed specifically for indoor environments, such as airports, shopping malls, and public buildings. Discuss the challenges and opportunities in creating accessible navigation solutions for individuals with visual impairments.
- Outdoor navigation and environmental awareness: Highlight assistive technologies and navigation aids designed to support outdoor mobility, orientation, and environmental awareness for individuals with visual impairments, including GPS-based navigation systems and sensory substitution devices.
- Technology for nonvisual coding and programming: Explore tools and platforms that facilitate coding and programming tasks for individuals with visual impairments. Discuss screen reader-compatible integrated development environments (IDEs), programming languages, and accessible programming tutorials.
- User-centered design principles: Explore the importance of incorporating user feedback and involving individuals with visual impairments in the design process of technologies. Discuss how user-centered design principles can lead to more effective and user-friendly solutions.
- Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) learning experiences: Discuss the potential of VR and AR technologies in providing immersive learning experiences for people with visual impairments. Explore how these technologies can simulate real-world environments and scenarios to enhance learning outcomes for individuals with visual impairments.
- Wearable assistive devices: Discuss the potential of wearable technologies, such as smart glasses, haptic vests, and wearable navigation systems, to provide real-time assistance and enhance mobility, navigation, and information access for individuals with visual impairments.
Papers may be submitted to the journal's Editor in Chief Robert Wall Emerson, PhD, Western Michigan University, at https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/jvib. Submitted manuscripts will undergo standard peer review. Guidelines for contributors are available from the American Foundation for the Blind: website; e-mail, jvib@afb.org.
