Contextual web accessibility - maximizing the benefit of accessibility guidelines

Abstract

We argue that while work to optimize the accessibility of the World Wide Web through the publication and dissemination of a range of guidelines is of great importance, there is also the need for a more holistic approach to maximizing the role of the Web in enabling disabled people to access information, services and experiences. The persistently disappointingly low levels of usability of Web content for disabled people indicates that focusing on the adoption of accessibility guidelines by content authors, tool developers and policy makers is not sufficient for a truly inclusive Web. This approach fails to acknowledge the role of the Web as an enabler in a broader context and may stifle creative use of Web content and experiences to enhance social inclusion. Using e-learning as an example, and describing current metadata developments, we present a framework that will guide Web authors and policy makers in addressing accessibility at a higher level, by defining the context in which a Web resource will be used and considering how best existing or new alternatives may be combined to enhance the accessibility of the information and services provided by the site in question. We demonstrate how guidelines such as those produced by the W3C's Web Accessibility Initiative have a role to play within this wider context, along with metadata and user profiling initiatives.

Matching learning material to people with disabilities based on competence and functional capability

“…image, text, and video) [14], and textual. The abilities of users include sensory/perceptual (auditory and vision), cognitive, and mobility [29].…”

An approach to the integration of accessibility requirements into a user interface development method

“…Although some authors provide instructions for the use of these guidelines [24] or propose simple frameworks in an attempt to maximize the benefits gained from the implementation of these guidelines [25], very few address the question of how to incorporate accessibility requirements in the software development process [26]. Where this does occur, individual suggestions are generally offered as opposed to comprehensive solutions [27].…”

Designing E-Learning Collaborative Tools for Blind People

“…Sloan et al proposed a holistic approach to treating accessibility. They believe that the goal of universal accessibility on the Web is inappropriate, and that instead it is necessary to explore multiple routes to equivalent experience (Sloan et al, 2006). Furthermore, Zaharias critically examined the usability of elearning applications and proposed the student's intrinsic motivation to learn as a new usability measure (Zacharias, 2006).…”