The XRCVC Audio Flashcards Project is an initiative to empower visually impaired students through personalized and accessible learning tools. Integrated into the Xavier’s College student app, the feature allows users to create and access audio flashcards on any topic, along with pre-recorded content and customizable audio settings.
Designed with inclusivity at its core, the platform enhances self-study for over 100 students by adhering to WCAG standards and providing seamless keyboard navigation and screen reader compatibility.
Redesigned learning for visually impaired students by integrating audio-based flashcards into Xavier’s College’s student app. I conducted focus groups to map user needs, designed wireframes and prototypes aligned with accessibility standards, and collaborated with the development team to implement the features using React Native and Firebase. Key elements included seamless screen reader compatibility, customizable audio settings and keyboard navigation adhering to WCAG standards.
The platform transformed how over 100 visually impaired students accessed learning materials, empowering them to independently create and customize audio flashcards. The initiative enhanced engagement, accessibility, and inclusivity while setting a precedent for educational tools designed with empathy.
This experience deepened my understanding of designing inclusive digital experiences. I gained insights into balancing user needs with technical feasibility, iterative prototyping, and creating solutions that prioritize usability and independence for all users.
Accessibility experts
User research participants (visually impaired students and educators)
Mobile app development team
Primary: Visually impaired students at Xavier’s College, relying on assistive technologies for personalized learning.
Secondary: Teachers supporting inclusive education and adapting to assistive tools.
Existing platforms did not provide features like adjustable audio settings and were incompatible with screen readers
Students faced difficulties in creating and accessing customized learning materials
Develop an audio flashcards feature integrated into the Xavier’s College student app
Incorporate WCAG-compliant features, including text-to-speech compatibility, customizable audio settings (speed, pitch, volume), and intuitive keyboard shortcuts
Enable students to independently create and use audio flashcards, enhancing accessibility and personalized learning
Difficulty navigating online resources without assistive features like keyboard shortcuts
Compatibility issues with screen readers and the lack of easily readable formats affected access
Soft tones and low brightness were unsuitable for users with visual impairments
Standard font sizes and styles were hard to read, requiring customizable text options
Users struggled with inadequate audio descriptions and poorly detailed alternative text
Audio descriptions were preferred over captions and transcripts for multimedia content
Flashcards integrated with text-to-speech technology, allowing content to be read aloud with adjustable audio parameters, including speed, pitch, and volume
Seamless transitions through keyboard shortcuts and voice commands, supported by collapsible menus and consistent layouts to minimize cognitive load
High-contrast modes, scalable font sizes, and descriptive audio for diagrams and alt-text ensured comprehensive content access for low-vision users
Features like bookmarking and progress tracking encouraged engagement, while a dashboard provided insights into completed and pending topics
