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January 4th • Accessibility & Literacy

World Braille Day

A day to celebrate the birth of Louis Braille and the invention of the tactile writing system that changed the world for millions of people with visual impairments. Braille is not just a code; it is a symbol of accessibility, independence, and the human right to literacy. This lesson explores the impact of technology on traditional braille, the importance of inclusive design, and how we can build a world that is accessible to everyone.

A close-up of a hand reading Braille

Speaking Discussion

  • Why is literacy (the ability to read and write) considered a fundamental human right? How does Braille fulfill this right for the visually impaired?
  • Do you think modern technology (like screen readers and voice assistants) will eventually make Braille obsolete? Is this a good or bad thing?
  • How accessible is your current city for people with visual impairments? What are the biggest physical obstacles they face daily?
  • In your opinion, should Braille be taught in mainstream schools to all children, similar to how we teach foreign languages?
  • What does the word independence mean to you? How does being able to read independently change a person's life?
  • Can you think of any examples of inclusive design (design that works for everyone) in your everyday life?
  • If you were to lose one of your five senses today, which one would be the most difficult to adapt to? Why do you think so?

Activity 1: The inclusive Audit

The Task: You are an Accessibility Consultant. Choose a public building (e.g., a library or a mall) and propose 3 simple changes to make it 100% accessible for the blind.

from the sidebar.

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

  • "The most important sense for me is..."
  • "I think inclusive design is..."
  • "In my opinion, technology has made life..."