Access and Engagement to
Education 2

In spring 2020, the Access and Engagement 1 survey examined the impact of COVID-19 on the education of students with visual impairments, their families, teachers of students with visual impairments (TVIs), and orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists. The Access and Engagement report is a comprehensive document that reports the results of what was learned from the 1,432 individuals who completed the survey.

For the second Access and Engagement survey, we want to understand the successes, challenges, and concerns of family members, TVIs, and O&M specialists happening now during the 2020-2021 school year.

The Access and Engagement 2 survey is open until November 30 to:

  • A family member or guardian of a child with a visual impairment
  • A teacher of students with visual impairment (TVI)
  • An orientation and mobility (O&M) instructor

An important ask for everyone! Please reach out to a family member or guardian who may not know about the survey, may not have internet access, and/or may not have easy access to a device. For example, offer to support them in completing the survey by reading them the survey and entering their responses, loaning them a device, or offering to provide childcare while they take the time to do the survey.

Download a PDF flyer to share with others, inviting them to take the The Access and Engagement 2 survey.

COVID-19 and Its Impact on Students Who Are Visually Impaired, Including Those with Additional Disabilities and Deafblindness

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic—including school closures and the shift of education to online environments—has led to concerns about the quality of education for students who are blind or have low vision, including those with additional disabilities and deafblindness. Organizations and companies invested in the education of students are collaborating to understand the impact of COVID-19. Information gathered through the survey will inform teachers, administrators, policymakers, families, and others so together we can ensure every student receives an accessible and engaging education that meets each student’s individual needs.

This website and effort is the result of collaboration among the following organizations, companies, and universities invested in the education of children and youth with visual impairments, including those with multiple disabilities and deafblindness.