# Invitation

## Invitation to participate in a study of Blind and Low-Vision individuals with an interest in web/interactive design

## 2021 06 03

Hello there, My name is Adam Rallo and I am a professional design and design educator, working on my Masters in Inclusive Design at OCAD. I would like to invite you to participate in a research study for Blind and Low-Vision individuals with an interest in web/interactive design.

The purpose of this study is to identify the unique barriers and difficulties that blind or low-vision individuals face when pursuing education and work in the field of web/interactive design. The ultimate goal of this research is to help build towards a future where more blind and low-vision individuals are able to obtain and maintain gainful employment within the web/interactive design industry. I’m looking for participants to interview who meet one of the following three criteria:

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1. Blind or low-vision individuals with an interest in pursuing an education, training, or work as a professional web/interactive designer.
2. Blind or low-vision Individuals who are currently pursuing an education or training to become a professional web/interactive designer.
3. Blind or low-vision individuals who are currently working as a professional web/interactive designer.

As a participant, you will be asked to take part in a private interview with the researcher. Participation will take approximately one to two hours of your time.

The main benefit of participating in this research is to help accurately identify barriers that blind and low-vision individuals may face in pursuing their interest in web/interactive design. The Researcher's intended focus is to help reduce these barriers, and increase professional design opportunities for individuals with severely impaired eyesight.

There also may be risks associated with participation. The Researcher may ask questions to identify relevant barriers or obstacles that you have experienced in life. Recalling these experiences may cause emotional or psychological distress. You can choose not to answer any question at any time. Furthermore, you can indicate any subjects or themes that you do not wish to be asked about, and the Researcher will abide by this request.

If you are interested in participating in this research with me, or if you simply wish to find out more, please email me, the Principal Investigator at: \[$1\] or the Faculty Supervisor Richard Hunt, using the contact information provided below. I am happy to answer your questions over the phone, via video chat, over email, or any way that suits you, just let me know what you prefer. If you know anyone who may be interested in participating in this study, please don’t hesitate to forward this invitation along.

This study has been reviewed and received ethics clearance through the Research Ethics Board at OCAD University, REB approval #2021-37. If you have any comments or concerns, please contact the Research Ethics Office through \[$1\].

cheers,

\-Adam

**Principal Investigator:**
 Adam Rallo RGD, Student
Inclusive Design
OCAD University
\[647-997-0697\] • \[$1\]

**Faculty Supervisor:**
Richard Hunt, Associate Professor
Faculty of Design
OCAD University
\[416-599-5011\] • \[$1\]