The Typhloinformation Center of Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod held the 2nd National Typhlo IT Forum on July 28-30. The forum for experts from Russian non-profit organizations working to promote computer literacy among people with visual impairments was organized in partnership with Nizhny Novgorod regional rehabilitation center for visually impaired people Camerata and Elita Group Company and was supported by the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation.

Individuals who are blind or visually impaired cannot access visual information on the computer screen or use a mouse to navigate through content. Special software programs like screen readers or refreshable Braille displays as well as keyboards with large print key-top labels are needed. There are other barriers concerning the colour of the monitor and size of computer-generated symbols. Despite enormous difficulties participants of training programmes learn to use software applications.

The aim of the Forum was to support the use of typhloinformation technology more effectively by identifying and disseminating best practices for designing engaging courses, introducing new developments and enhancing facilities for visually impaired people in Russian regions.

The Forum featured master classes for computer literacy educators. Experts from Russian non-profit organizations working in the field presented some of their innovative projects. These presentations and some selected academic works of graduates from a distance learning course in teaching computer typhlotechnology will be available on the website of Camerata.

The Typhloinformation Center of Lobachevsky University – the first specialized computer center for visually impaired people in Russia – was set up in 1999. It has developed different training programmes for visually impaired people, including distance learning courses through Skype. In collaboration with rehabilitation centers, the Typhloinformation Center facilitates the exchange of experience and social integration of disabled people.