Accessibility Awareness (A11Y)

1. Auditory Accessibility:
   • Captions and Subtitles: For educational content that includes spoken dialogue or audio instructions, text, captions and subtitles are provided in multiple languages. This feature benefits users who are deaf or hard of hearing.
   • Background Noise: In most settings (water sounds, wind through trees, music) can be turned on or off allocating for those with focus challenges, auditory sensitivities, hearing impairments, hearing aids, and cochlear implants.
   • Volume Controls: Users can adjust the volume levels of audio elements within the software, accommodating those with sensitivity to loud sounds or who require amplified audio.
2. Cognitive Accessibility:
   • Clear Instructions: The software provides clear and concise instructions throughout the educational experience, helping users with cognitive disabilities understand tasks and objectives.
   • Casting – Users with cognitive challenges can cast their view onto a 2D screen for added support from instructors outside of the 3D setting, allowing for greater opportunity for success.
   • Simplified Navigation: Intuitive menus and navigation structures are designed to minimize cognitive load and assist users in finding and accessing educational content easily.
3. Compatibility with Assistive Technologies:
   • Third-Party Software Support: While not directly responsible for hardware, the software is designed to be compatible with a variety of assistive technologies commonly used with VR headsets and computers, enhancing accessibility for users who rely on such tools.
4. Motor and Physical Accessibility:
   • Adjustable Height: The software allows users to adjust the height of their avatar, accommodating for those with sensitivity to motion and for those restricted to beds or wheelchairs.
   • Alternative Input Methods: The software supports a range of input devices, allowing users to navigate and interact using controllers, keyboards, or other assistive devices compatible with VR and computer systems.
   • Customizable Controls: Key bindings and control settings are customizable, enabling users with limited mobility or dexterity impairments to operate the software comfortably.
   • Customizable Avatars: Supporting SEL skills, Users interact with others through the use of customizable avatars. Customizing avatars offers learners:
     1. Personalization – fosters a sense of ownership and identity which can lead to increased engagement and motivation as learners feel more connected to the virtual space.
     2. Representation – learners can represent themselves in ways not possible in real-life educational settings including genders, appearance, and characteristics, allowing learners to express themselves comfortably and authentically.
     3. Accessibility – accommodates various accessibility needs, or not depending on the preference of the user.
     4. Social Interaction – facilitates social interaction and communication, promoting teamwork and collaboration.
     5. Embodiment and Presence – enhances the feeling of being present in the virtual environment making learning more immersive and impactful unlike engaging with others in a 2D virtual environment.
     6. Role-playing and simulation – customized to fit specific roles in the educational setting
     7. Engagement and fun – adds an element of playfulness and creativity.

• • Free Movement:  Users can choose to move about freely within the software, walking, jumping, running, swimming, allowing for alternative methods of movements for those normally reliant on a wheelchair or restricted to a bed
  • Teleportation: Users have the option to teleport throughout the software interactive experience, providing an allowance for those with internal sensitivities to movement in VR.

5. User Education:

• • Comprehensive User Guides and support materials are available both within the software and outside of it. These guides highlight accessibility features and best practices which empowers users to maximize the accessibility options available within the software.

6. Visual Accessibility:

• • Audio Descriptions: Where applicable, audio cues and descriptions are provided to supplement visual content, ensuring that visually impaired users can access educational materials effectively.
  • Customizable Interfaces: Users can adjust brightness and contrast settings within the hardware, allowing for personalized visual experiences.
  • Hardware Visual Accessibility Features: 
    1. Headsets have ocular lenses that can be removed and replaced with prescription lenses.
    2. Spacer inserts are available for those that wear glasses.
    3. Ocular lenses are adjustable for centering to the width of the user’s eyes.
  • High Contrast Mode: The software supports high contrast modes to assist users with low vision or visual impairments in distinguishing interface elements.