Accessibility and Social Inclusivity: A Literature Review of Music Technology for Blind and Low Vision People

2025-07-30

AI Summary

This study addresses the lack of systematic knowledge integration and inclusive design frameworks for blind and low-vision (BLV) individuals in music technology. Employing a systematic literature review, it classifies existing research by technological modality and degree of user involvement, identifying six technology categories and four emerging design trends. The work introduces four empirically grounded design insights—centered on spatial perception, information access, nonverbal communication, and memory—that advance the field beyond mere accessibility toward social inclusion. It advocates for co-design methodologies and deep, context-embedded participation of BLV users throughout development. By bridging empirical rigor with sociotechnical integration, this research fills critical gaps in both evidence-based practice and socially situated design, offering theoretical foundations and actionable pathways for building more inclusive music technologies. (149 words)

Technology Category

• Humans and AI: AI for Accessibility
• Computer Vision: Low Level & Physics-based Vision
• Cognitive Modeling & Cognitive Systems: Affective Computing

Application Category

• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: Practical large-scale studies of user experience
• Responsible Web: Machine-in-the-loop, human agency and autonomy
• Security and Privacy: Privacy-enhancing technologies

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic literature review of music technology tailored for blind and low vision (BLV) individuals. Music activities can be particularly beneficial for BLV people. However, a systematic approach to organizing knowledge on designing accessible technology for BLV people has yet to be attempted. We categorize the existing studies based on the type of technology and the extent of BLV people's involvement in the research. We identify six main categories of BLV people-oriented music technology and highlight four key trends in design goals. Based on these categories, we propose four general insights focusing on (1) spatial awareness, (2) access to information, (3) (non-verbal) communication, and (4) memory. The identified trends suggest that more empirical studies involving BLV people in real-world scenarios are needed to ensure that technological advancements can enhance musical experiences and social inclusion. This research proposes collaborative music technology and inclusive real-world testing with the target group as two key areas missing in current research. They serve as a foundational step in shifting the focus from ``accessible technology'' to ``inclusive technology'' for BLV individuals within the broader field of accessibility research.

Problem

• Reviewing music technology for blind and low vision accessibility
• Identifying gaps in inclusive design for BLV music experiences
• Proposing collaborative tech and real-world testing for inclusion

Innovation

• Systematic review of BLV-oriented music technology
• Proposes collaborative inclusive music technology design
• Emphasizes real-world testing with BLV individuals