Transcript Universal Access for the Web DIS 450 February 11, 2003

Universal Access for the Web
NSIP Teleconference
January 22, 2004
Alan Parks, M.Ed.
Coordinator of Dissemination & Technology
Center for Community Inclusion & Disability Studies
What is universal access for the
web?
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Universal Access means designing web
and related technologies in a way that
assures that all users can access and
benefit from the content.
Related technologies include: CDs, DVDs,
videos, and technologies we haven’t
envisioned yet.
Why do we need Universal Access
for the Web?
Universal access to communication and
information services is seen by many as an
essential human right. Those who work
with new media technologies must strive
to create products that meet the needs of
an increasingly diverse environment.
Physical, technical, economic, and social
factors must all be considered.
Gretchen Gfeller, UMaine
What are the qualities of universally
accessible websites?
Universally accessible sites:
 provide alternate descriptions of graphical
elements,
 provide headers for columns and rows in
tables that contain data,
 use identifying language for links,
 have high contrast between background
and text,
 meet Section 508 Standards
Consider how these people benefit
from universally accessible websites
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People with learning disabilities
People with color blindness
Deaf/H-O-H people
Blind people
People with atypical motor skills
Whom would you add??
Let’s review UM’s Accessibility
Website
www.umaine.edu/insider/accessibility
Discussion
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How does an understanding of universal access for the
web (and related technologies) benefit you
professionally?
How…personally?
What are the legal ramifications of universal access &
the web?
Where can I get further information on this issue?
More fun:
http://www.optimizationweek.com/reviews/president/