LAUSR

The number of students with blindness and visual impairments (BVI) completing an undergraduate degree or majoring in STEM programs is low compared to students without disabilities. Though there are several reasons, numbering among them are instructor inexperience teaching students with BVI and a lack of knowledge regarding accessibility requirements and accommodations that can be provided to support them. This article contains suggestions regarding safety considerations, accessibility, and accommodations useful in supporting students with BVI in microbiology. Most of the information is applicable to other fields and scenarios as well. When students with BVI are provided with the necessary support, they can be as successful in microbiology as their classmates without disabilities. As more students with BVI achieve success, they can serve as role models and contribute to overcoming remaining barriers to success for students with BVI in microbiology and other STEM courses.