Abstract:
The visually impaired community forms a small but integral part of South Africa with the
potential to contribute meaningfully to its infrastructure and society, yet blind learners still seem
to struggle with computer use. There are various barriers that stand between blind learners and
computer access. In this study, I explore the experiences of blind high-school learners (n=4)
with regards to computer use. A qualitative case study was applied as research design at a
high-school for the visually impaired. Data sources included semi-structured interviews and
focus-group discussions, which were audio-recorded and transcribed. Observation-in-thecontext
was documented in research diaries and field notes. Following thematic analysis, the
following themes emerged: value of computer use for blind users; barriers related to blind
computer use; and future solutions and possibilities of blind computer use. Insights may inform
future conceptualisation and implementation of computer use amongst blind high school
learners.
