Universal Access in Human-Computer Interaction: Theory, Methods, and Tools

Universal access in human-computer interaction (HCI) is the design and development of computer systems and applications that can be used by people with a wide range of abilities and disabilities. This includes people with physical, sensory, cognitive, and developmental disabilities, as well as people who are aging or who have temporary impairments.

Universal Access in Human-Computer Interaction. Theory, Methods and Tools: 13th International Conference, UAHCI 2024, Held as Part of the 21st HCI International ... Notes in Computer Science Book 11572)

by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	97588 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1060 pages
Item Weight	:	12 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.28 x 1.26 x 7.99 inches

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Universal access is important because it allows everyone to participate in the digital world. People with disabilities should be able to use computers and other electronic devices to access information, communicate with others, and participate in education and employment. Universal access also benefits people without disabilities by making it easier for them to use computers and other devices.

Theory of Universal Access

The theory of universal access is based on the principle of design for all. This principle states that products and environments should be designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

There are several key concepts that underlie the theory of universal access. These concepts include:

• Equity: All users should have equal access to computers and other electronic devices.
• Independence: Users should be able to use computers and other electronic devices independently, without assistance from others.
• Choice: Users should have a choice of assistive technologies and other tools that they can use to access computers and other electronic devices.
• Usability: Computers and other electronic devices should be easy to use for everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

Methods for Designing for Universal Access

There are a number of methods that can be used to design for universal access. These methods include:

• User-centered design: This method involves involving users with disabilities in the design process from the beginning. This ensures that the needs of users with disabilities are met.
• Accessibility guidelines: There are a number of accessibility guidelines that can be used to help designers create accessible user interfaces. These guidelines provide specific instructions on how to design accessible websites, software, and other electronic devices.
• Assistive technology: Assistive technology is a range of devices and software programs that can help people with disabilities use computers and other electronic devices. Assistive technology can be used to provide access to input devices, output devices, and software applications.

Tools for Designing for Universal Access

There are a number of tools that can be used to help designers create accessible user interfaces. These tools include:

• Accessibility checkers: Accessibility checkers are software programs that can check websites, software, and other electronic devices for accessibility errors. These checkers can help designers identify and fix accessibility problems.
• Screen readers: Screen readers are software programs that read aloud the text on a computer screen. This allows people with visual impairments to access information on computers and other electronic devices.
• Magnifiers: Magnifiers are software programs that enlarge the text on a computer screen. This allows people with low vision to read information on computers and other electronic devices.

Universal access is an important aspect of HCI. By designing for universal access, we can ensure that everyone can participate in the digital world. The theory, methods, and tools described in this article can help designers create accessible and inclusive user interfaces.

Universal Access in Human-Computer Interaction. Theory, Methods and Tools: 13th International Conference, UAHCI 2024, Held as Part of the 21st HCI International ... Notes in Computer Science Book 11572)

by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	97588 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1060 pages
Item Weight	:	12 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.28 x 1.26 x 7.99 inches

FREE