#262: DotQuest: Accessible STEM Games to Support Blind and Visually Impaired Learners

Blind and low vision (BLV) students face persistent barriers to full participation in STEM learning, particularly due to the limited availability of accessible tools. This study introduces DotQuest, a technology probe that integrates haptic feedback, and a conversational agent to create narrative-driven, game-based STEM activities. To examine how such tools might support equitable participation, we conducted interviews with seven Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments (TVIs) across U.S. Analysis revealed that teachers emphasize the importance of simultaneous tactile and auditory access, the need for classroom tools that foster both independence and inclusion, and the value of designing accessibility from the outset rather than as an accommodation. Findings show that multimodal game-based environments can enhance STEM engagement while revealing systemic barriers for BLV learners. This work contributes to the learning sciences by deepening understanding of how multimodal and inclusive design can guide the development of equitable STEM learning environments.