Thinker33

This talk highlights how accessibility can foster inclusion. It provides a variety of examples of why digital accessibility is important and potential implementations. #accessibility

Apple Music and Podcasts now provide transcripts that sync with the content. The FDA is approving Apple's Airpods Pro 2 as hearing aids. They are also releasing a hearing test designed to be used with the device. A new accessibility feature in iOS 18 is Music Haptics, which uses synced vibrations to convey the musical experience. These devices and features have the potential to make a significant impact for people with hearing loss or who are deaf. #accessibility

This article highlights how a conservative Supreme Court could weaken the ADA. The ADA requires plaintiffs to prove intentional discrimination. Currently, there is a circuit split on what the burden of proof is. Some districts say that only deliberate indifference is required while other districts are arguing that the plaintiff must show discriminatory animus to be awarded damages. Adopting the discriminatory animus standard would seriously weaken the ADA. #accessibility

There is a circuit split on whether the ADA applies to websites. This creates ambiguity because each district is different. For example, Winn-Dixie originally lost its case but won its appeal because the judges felt the ADA could not be applied to websites. However, this deprives people using assistive technologies from being able to place an order online. If the Supreme Court takes this case in the future they should extend ADA protections to web content. #accessibility

This article profiles how the U.S. General Services Administration is working to make its digital content more accessible. They are making digital accessibility part of their design process. They also prioritize using a consistent user-centered design, easy-to-understand language, and mobile/tablet testing. #accessibility

This article highlights why digital accessibility is important. It provides a summary of the legal landscape, universal design, the lived experience of people with disabilities, accessibility testing methods, and the screen reading software available. It also provides a host of resources to explore the topic further. #accessibility

This Conference Paper reviews the history of digital accessibility research. It found that a majority of studies have focused on web accessibility and media accessibility. There is a lack of studies including people with disabilities and utilizing interdisciplinary collaboration. There are fewer studies on subjects like kiosks, virtual reality, and mobile. We need diverse researchers and studies to explore all the different facets of digital accessibility. #accessibility

This is an interesting talk highlighting some of the issues that can occur on a website when an accessibility overlay is used. #accessibility

Today is International Sign Language Day. There are approximately 300 different sign languages and French Sign Language is thought to be the oldest, which dates back to 1771. Sign language interpreting should be part of press conferences, and live events. Sign language interpreting promotes inclusion and diversity. #accessibility

This article highlights a study showing that only 7% of people with disabilities feel there is adequate representation of their community and 87% would be willing to provide user feedback. The article highlights AI advancements in digital accessibility like audio and image descriptions. #accessibility

This resolution between the Office of Civil Rights and California State University Stanislaus regards kiosk accessibility. Kiosks are often used to offload providing support staff. However, this resolution requires the university to make support staff available upon request. It will be interesting to see how this space develops in the future. #accessibility

Princeton University is using WayFinding technology to create accessible maps that highlight accessibility features for each building on campus. This makes it easy to create an accessible route to buildings on campus. Check out the full article for more details. #accessibility