Indiana Students Help Improve Accessible Coding Software

Seven students from the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired helped develop new accessibility features for Microsoft MakeCode.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Special Education

Bold vector editorial illustration showing tactile modular blocks with embossed patterns, representing accessible tools for visually impaired students in coding. — Students from the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired have helped Microsoft MakeCode integrate new accessibility features for blind coders. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe specialized accessibility technology effectively creates equal opportunities for students with vision impairments?

In 2025, seven students at the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired worked with the Micro:bit Educational Foundation to refine coding software. Their testing of braille-inscribed magnets and screen reader technology led to new accessibility features now integrated into Microsoft MakeCode.

Why it matters

The project addresses critical gaps in technology education, aiming to improve accessibility for the millions of Americans living with vision impairment. By optimizing screen readers and tactile diagrams, researchers hope to lower barriers to entry for blind and visually impaired students in STEM fields.

Nationwide, 7 million people have vision impairment and 1 million are diagnosed with blindness. In Indiana, 12,000 adolescents have experienced vision loss, while federal data from 2024 shows 3% of U.S. children are diagnosed with blindness or impairment.

The players

Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired

This educational institution serves students with vision loss through specialized curriculum and support services.

Micro:bit Educational Foundation

This organization develops technology and resources to promote computer science education globally.

The details

Researchers worked closely with students both in person and remotely to refine physical diagram requirements and ensure software compatibility. This collaborative effort resulted in functional improvements that allow visually impaired users to navigate coding environments more effectively.

In 2024, the CDC reported that 3% of U.S. children had vision impairment.
During 2025, students at the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired tested and developed the new technology.

Culture Shift

This project reflects a broader societal shift toward inclusive design, moving beyond basic accessibility requirements to create specialized tools for diverse learners. It aligns with the mandates of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to ensure equitable access to modern educational resources.

For visually impaired students in Indiana, these software updates provide more intuitive tools for learning computer programming. The integration of screen reader support allows for more independent navigation of digital lessons and projects.

The takeaway

Inclusive design processes require direct input from users to create functional and effective educational technology. Educators and developers can implement these collaboration strategies to better serve students with visual impairments in any classroom setting.