Mapping the Landscape of Digital Accessibility in Computer Science Education: A Mapping Literature Review

Abstract

This mapping review examines the integration of digital accessibility within computer science education, a critical component of educational equity in our increasingly digital world.With the rapid shift to online course learning driven by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for accessible educational resources has become more pronounced, highlighting the challenges faced by both students and faculty.This review examines various scholarly publications to map out the current landscape of digital accessibility in higher education computing programs.It identifies prevalent challenges and explores those efforts undertaken by educational researchers to enhance the accessibility of their curricula.The review adopts a mapping literature review methodology, enabling a broad coverage of relevant studies without focusing on detailed critical appraisals.Key databases such as IEEE Xplore and ACM Digital Library were searched using targeted keywords such as "Digital Accessibility" AND "Computer Science Education", "Online learning" OR "Virtual Classrooms" AND "Accessibility", "Inclusive Education" AND "Computer Science" OR "E-Learning".The collected data was analyzed using thematic analysis methods to identify recurring themes and to highlight significant gaps in the literature.Our findings reveal that while there is a growing awareness of the necessity for accessible learning environments, implementation practices vary significantly, often lacking consistency.The review discusses the implications of these findings for future research, and educational practice, emphasizing the need for more systematic approaches to integrate accessibility into the computing curriculum effectively.This synthesis not only contributes to academic discourse but also serves as a guide for improving digital accessibility in computer science education, ultimately aiming to foster an inclusive academic environment for all students. Introduction/MotivationOnline courses and digital resources have revolutionized education, providing students with unprecedented flexibility and access to educational content [1], [2].Amidst this digital transformation, a significant challenge endures, one that strikes at the very core of educational equity: ensuring that these digital resources are both accessible and usable for all students, regardless of their abilities or disabilities [3].In the contemporary educational context, the term "accessibility" extends far beyond physical entry into classrooms; it encompasses the right of every learner, irrespective of their physical or cognitive abilities, to access information, participate in learning activities and interact with educational content.The principle of equitable education mandates that digital learning materials be designed to accommodate the needs of every student, fostering an environment where all learners have equal opportunity to thrive academically [3], [4].

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