Patrick
Emporia State University associate professor Erika Martin, working alongside Whitney Davidson, has introduced The Adapted Biology Lab Manual—a groundbreaking, low-cost digital guide created to make science both accessible and enjoyable for high school students who are blind or have limited vision.
Developed with the conviction that scientific discovery should be available to all, the manual ensures students with varying visual abilities can engage equally and independently in biology laboratory activities.
A Comprehensive Manual Designed for All Learners
Martin’s publication contains 12 fully adaptable modules that can be used by blind, low-vision, and sighted students alike.
In addition to the student materials, the manual includes an extensive set of teacher resources, offering links to affordable scientific tools and cost-effective strategies for conducting each lab experiment.
A Decade-Long Journey Toward Inclusive Learning
The idea for this resource dates back nearly ten years, when Martin encountered three blind students during one of her first classes at Emporia State University.
At the time, standard accommodations required blind students to work with sighted partners, who performed experiments and verbally described results—an arrangement that prevented blind learners from truly participating in the scientific process.
Motivated to create meaningful change, Martin collaborated with a student who initially disliked biology to redesign lab experiences that were fully hands-on, engaging, and empowering for blind learners.
Over time, this effort evolved into a comprehensive teaching tool that supports independent exploration and authentic scientific practice.
Field-Tested and Widely Supported
After undergoing rigorous field testing across the country and gaining support from a forward-thinking publisher, The Adapted Biology Lab Manual has been officially released. It is believed to be the only accessible biology lab manual of its kind available today.
Reflecting on the project, Martin expressed her hope that the resource will inspire curiosity and excitement for learning:
“There is so much to understand and enjoy in the world, and I can only hope that this contributes something meaningful to bring biology to everyone.”
Affordable Access for Educators Nationwide
The manual is now available through the American Printing House for just $20, giving teachers a budget-friendly yet transformative tool that supports an inclusive science curriculum for diverse classrooms.
The Adapted Biology Lab Manual represents a significant advancement in inclusive science education, offering blind and low-vision students an opportunity to participate fully in biology labs—often for the first time.
Through a decade of dedication and collaboration, Erika Martin has provided educators with an accessible, affordable, and meaningful resource that brings hands-on science to every learner.