E-accessibility supports researchers with disabilities

Abstract

This paper introduces different barriers encountered by researchers and lecturers with disabilities or chronic health conditions (RWDs) in academia, as well as requirements for an inclusive ICT environment in order to overcome these barriers (work in progress). These barriers were identified by carrying out interviews with RWDs and focus groups. While some of the barriers are similar to barriers faced by students with disabilities, others are very specific to RWDs. Continuous monitoring and assessment of digital accessibility at higher educational institutions is crucial to maintain an accessible environment for this group of people with disabilities. The terms "digital accessibility", "e-accessibility", and "ICT-Accessibility" are used interchangeably in this paper.