How people with different disabilities use the web
People with different disabilities use the Web in many ways. Some people with visual disabilities use screen readers or refreshable Braille displays. Some people with physical disabilities use voice dictation or alternative keyboards and mice. The two main themes when making accessible web pages are:
- The information that is present must be accessible no matter who the user is or how the user views the web page.
- Navigation of the information should be easy and intuitive no matter who the user is or how the user view the web page.
Assistive Technologies
According to the ATIA (Assistive Technology Industry Association), "Assistive Technology … is any item, piece of equipment, product or system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities." These technologies can be complete, elaborate systems like screen readers, or simple built-in components like those which provide spelling or grammar checks. Here is a brief list of assistive technologies and general descriptions.
Links
Assistivetech.net
(http://www.assistivetech.net)
