Inclusive STEM education in practice: Gopika’s story
Inclusive STEM education is transforming how students like Gopika learn and experience the classroom. A Class 10 student at Tiruvannamalai, Gopika comes from Kolavoor and has complete vision loss. Despite financial constraints—her father is a coconut vendor and her mother a tailor—her parents have always wanted her to access the same opportunities as other children.
Learning without access: Early challenges
At school, Gopika learned mathematics using the Taylor Frame and could perform calculations. However, the subject felt mechanical, and over time, she lost interest.
Science learning was largely based on memorisation. Concepts such as thermal expansion, centrifugal force, and conductors were remembered for exams but not fully understood. Geometry was limited to identifying shapes through touch, without opportunities to construct or explore them.
In many special schools, this remains a common challenge:
- Heavy reliance on memorisation
- Limited access to tactile and interactive tools
- Difficulty visualising abstract concepts
A shift to experiential learning
With the introduction of hands-on learning approaches, Gopika’s experience began to change.
Through computational thinking games like equation games, Snakes and Ladders, and Ludo, mathematics became engaging and interactive. Instead of only solving problems, she began understanding concepts through play.
Tactile tools such as Geoboards and Jodo straws enabled her to construct shapes independently, improving her understanding of geometry.
Science also became more meaningful as she experienced concepts through activities rather than memorising definitions.
The role of assistive technology
A significant shift came when Gopika began using the Hexis Braille Reader.
Earlier, she depended on teachers to read out news and study material. Now, she can independently access news, books and learning resources.
This has strengthened her confidence and ability to study on her own.
From abstract to meaningful learning
Subjects that once felt distant are now understandable and engaging.
By constructing shapes, participating in activities, and engaging with learning games, Gopika has:
- Strengthened logical thinking
- Developed curiosity
- Moved from memorising to truly understanding concepts
Her journey reflects how inclusive STEM education can unlock potential when the right tools and methods are in place.
Impact at scale
Gopika’s story is part of a larger transformation at her school, where more than 100 students have benefited.
Since 2022, the Cognizant Foundation, in collaboration with Vision Empower, has implemented Since 2022, the Cognizant Foundation, in collaboration with Vision Empower, has introduced a hands-on STEM learning initiative using assistive technology and experiential learning across 21 schools in Tamil Nadu.
The program has reached 1,200 students, 190 teachers, 800+ pre-service teachers
Why this matters
Gopika’s journey shows that when learning is accessible, it becomes meaningful.
With the right environment, tools, and support:
- Students understand concepts better
- Participation increases
- Confidence grows
- New possibilities emerge
Inclusive education is not just about access—it is about enabling every child to learn, explore, and thrive.