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The Accessibility Research Centre

The ARC of infinite possibilities

We are located at Indian Institute of Technology Madras

Logo of Indian Institute of Technology Madras, featuring a stylized lamp with a lotus and Sanskrit text at the bottom

Our focus

A Future for Inclusive Knowledge learning

At the Accessibility Research Centre, our vision is a world where academic disciplines are fully inclusive, where disability is no longer an obstacle to learning and participation. We envision a future where every institution, from schools to universities, integrates accessibility at its core—not just through assistive technologies but by rethinking how knowledge is created, delivered, and experienced.

Through innovative approaches in teacher training, digital systems, such as Extended Reality (XR) and AI, we aim to dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals with disabilities from accessing education and cultural resources. By building a more inclusive academic landscape, we hope to empower future generations, ensuring that all students, with different abilities and accessibility challenges, can thrive in a supportive environment.

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Latest Blog Posts

Accessibility Research and Development

Our research focuses on addressing the Disability and Discipline (D&D) phenomenon—the gap between academic disciplines and the needs of disabled students. Our projects aim to create systemic change in education and public spaces through innovative accessibility solutions.

  • We are developing teacher training programs that help educators understand and address the unique challenges disabled students face in their disciplines. Through specialized workshops and curriculum guides, we equip teachers with the tools to create inclusive, accessible classrooms.
    Teacher Training for Inclusive Learning
  • Our research explores how digital technologies can improve accessibility in public spaces like museums, libraries, Art galleries, gymnasiums, community centres, Planetariums, public parks and more. We are developing digital overlays and AI-powered tools that make these spaces more accessible by providing real-time support, such as screen readers and voice navigation, we also aspire to see a world where accessibility is a foundational conversation in these environments and not a mere platform for access.
    Digital Accessibility Systems
  • We are exploring the potential of AR/VR to create immersive, accessible learning environments. Our projects include developing virtual learning environments, interactive 3D models, and multimodal knowledge libraries that cater to diverse learning needs, providing students with disabilities with new ways to access knowledge. We also hope to build AR/VR for sophisticated learning materials on diversity, foundational learning and advancement of accessible research cultures.
    Augmented & Virtual Reality (AR/VR)
  • Our ongoing research continues to push the boundaries of technology and education, with plans to expand into AI-driven personalized learning and further integrate disability studies into academic curriculum. We are committed to creating inclusive solutions that fine tune disciplines and learning environments at large.
    Braille Book Project

Collaborations  &  Partnerships

Contact Us

Telephone Contact

022-2257-5638, 6380617367

Address

Room 001, New Academic Complex 2 - NAC2 block, Alumni Ave, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600036

Office Hours

Hours: 10 am - 5 pm

Status

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