Presenter
Jennifer Doran*, Ashley Neybert, and Andreas Schmittner PhD
Oregon State University, USA
Abstract
The Blind population is underrepresented in STEM fields across globe. The lack of accessible materials is one reason for this underrepresentation. Here, we will discuss workable leadership, self-advocacy, and effective communications strategies that Blind students can use to find other avenues to gain accessible materials when their university fails to supply materials in a timely matter. One of the most helpful methods to overcome this obstacle is working directly with scientists to ensure an accessible format is available upon request. Another helpful strategy is to work with individual colleges within a university to provide in-house materials for Blind students in STEM, as often disability offices at these universities lack the professional know-how and scientific understanding needed to convert STEM-related materials to an accessible format.