How can technology be used to make competitive exams more accessible for persons with disabilities?
The Supreme Court has directed UPSC to use screen-reader software and relax scribe norms for visually impaired candidates. I wish to analyze the broader role of technology in making exams inclusive for all.
Technology can play a crucial role in making competitive exams more accessible and inclusive for persons with disabilities. By leveraging digital tools and assistive technologies, various barriers to participation can be reduced or eliminated, ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.
- Screen-Reader Software: Specialized software like JAWS, NVDA, or VoiceOver can read out digital text, enabling visually impaired candidates to access exam content independently.
- Text-to-Speech and Speech-to-Text Tools: These tools help candidates with visual or motor disabilities by converting written text to audio and vice versa, aiding both comprehension and answer writing.
- Customizable Exam Interfaces: Online exam platforms can offer adjustable font sizes, color contrasts, and background colors to help candidates with low vision or dyslexia.
- Braille Displays and Printers: Electronic Braille devices can convert on-screen text to Braille, and Braille printers can provide hard copies of question papers for visually impaired aspirants.
- Relaxed Scribe Policies: Technology can enable remote scribing through secure video calls or AI-based virtual scribes, reducing dependency on human scribes and ensuring privacy.
- Accessible Question Paper Formats: Providing exam papers in multiple formats—large print, audio, Braille, or easy language—caters to diverse needs.
- Assistive Input Devices: Devices like adaptive keyboards, eye-tracking systems, or mouth sticks can help candidates with physical disabilities to type answers comfortably.
- Remote Proctoring and Home-Based Exams: Technology allows candidates with mobility challenges to appear for exams from home under secure, monitored conditions.
- Sign Language Interpretation: Video-based sign language support can be integrated into exam platforms for candidates with hearing impairments.
- Real-Time Doubt Resolution: Chatbots or live helpdesks can assist candidates facing technical difficulties during the exam, ensuring timely support.
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4 hours ago