Zoomlinux: a research result providing a tangible response to the needs of low vision students

This paper addresses the needs of low-vision students by examining the development of ZoomLinux, a DVD containing specially selected open source educational software products. The DVD was created in 2008 by a group of researchers1 and professionals2 who have gained extensive experience in visual impairment through studies conducted over many years. ZoomLinux differs from similar products devoted to people with special needs by being "especially normal": the software applications and the platform itself are readily usable by each and every student in the classroom, thus satisfying the most important requirement of e-inclusion. This approach offers new opportunities for educational and methodological settings: the teacher can customize system and software options in order to meet different special needs. For each educational software, the DVD provides detailed informations about strengths, weaknesses regarding use with low vision students, accessibility analysis and notes explaining how teachers can customize the interface.