A number of studies have been conducted to improve the accessibility of images using touchscreen devices for screen reader users. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of 33 papers to get a holistic understanding of existing approaches and to suggest a research road map given identified gaps. As a result, we identified types of images, visual information, input device and feedback modalities that were studied for improving image accessibility using touchscreen devices. Findings also revealed that there is little study how the generation of image-related information can be automated. Moreover, we confirmed that the involvement of screen reader users is mostly limited to evaluations, while input from target users during the design process is particularly important for the development of assistive technologies. Then we introduce two of our recent studies on the accessibility of artwork and comics, AccessArt and AccessComics, respectively. Based on the identified key challenges, we suggest a research agenda for improving image accessibility for screen reader users.

A number of studies have been conducted to improve the accessibility of images using touchscreen devices for screen reader users. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of 33 papers to get a holistic understanding of existing approaches and to suggest a research road map given identified gaps. As a result, we identified types of images, visual information, input device and feedback modalities that were studied for improving image accessibility using touchscreen devices. Findings also revealed that little has studied how to automate the generation of image-related information, and that screen reader users play important roles during the evaluation but the design process. Then we introduce two of our recent studies on the accessibility of artwork and comics, AccessArt and AccessComics respectively. Based on the identified key challenges, we suggest a research agenda for improving image accessibility for screen reader users.

For people with visual impairments, many studies have been conducted to improve the accessibility of various types of images on the web. However, the majority of the work focused on photos or graphs. In this study, we propose AccessComics, an accessible digital comic book reader for people with visual impairments. To understand the accessibility of existing platforms, we first conducted a formative online survey with 68 participants who are blind or have low vision asking about their prior experiences with audiobooks and eBooks. Then, to learn the implications of designing an accessible comic book reader for people with visual impairments, we conducted an interview study with 8 participants and collected feedback about our system. Considering our findings that a brief description of the scene and sound effects are desired when listening to comic books, we conducted a follow-up study with 16 participants (8 blind, 8 sighted) to explore how to effectively provide scene descriptions and sound effects, generated based on the onomatopoeia and mimetic words that appear in comics. Then we assessed the impact of the overall reading experience and if it differs depending on the user group. The results show that the presence of scene descriptions was perceived to be useful for concentration and understanding the situation, while the sound effects were perceived to make the book reading experience more immersive and realistic. Based on the findings, we suggest design implications specifying features that future accessible comic book readers should support.

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