Information system for visually impaired in Indian universities: a user's perspectives. Issue 3 (7th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bhardwaj, Raj Kumar
• Is Part Of: Information discovery and delivery. Volume 50:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 312
• Page End: 325
• Publication Date: 2021-10-07
• Subjects: India -- Blind -- Information system -- Visually impaired -- Assistive technologies -- Indian universities; Information retrieval -- Periodicals; Document delivery -- Periodicals; Digital libraries -- Periodicals; Information storage and retrieval systems -- Periodicals; 025.524
• DOI: 10.1108/IDD-05-2021-0053
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2398-6247

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This study aims to comprehend the perceptions of visually impaired users in development of information systems in Indian universities. This will help higher educational institutions in India to fulfil information requirements of visually impaired users. Design/methodology/approach: A twofold method was used in the study: survey of visually impaired students in four universities; design and development of an online information system for visually impaired (ISVI). A structured questionnaire was used for survey of visually impaired users in Indian universities. The questionnaire with 33 open-ended questions was distributed among 603 visually impaired users and 316 responses were received. Stratified sampling technique was used in data collection. Response rate was 52.4%. The received responses were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 19 and presented through tables and figures. Findings: Majority of respondents revealed that lack of content availability in vernacular language, poor information resources access mechanism, less volume of course content and poor maintenance of assistive software(s) and devices and non-standardized e-resources compatible with the assistive software(s) are some major inhibits faced. Majority of respondents revealed that they prefer scribes in examinations because use of assistive technology (AT) is time-consuming. Lack of training and confidence in using AT is another reason for preferring scribes in examinations. Research limitations/implications: This study was conducted on a limited number of visually impaired uses in Indian universities. Also, the online system ISVI contains a sample collection related to undergraduate courses only. Practical implications: This study will help Indian universities to identify problems faced by visually impaired users. Findings of the study can help faculty members, decision-makers to understand the perspective of visually impaired. Besides this, the study can also help government agencies in formulating policies. Findings will help in developing robust information resources suiting the needs of visually impaired. Originality/value: This study developed an online system ISVI (www.isvi.in ) suitable to address the requirements of visually impaired students. Furthermore, it can guide policymakers, faculty members and information professionals in developing seamless open access information systems.