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? 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 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 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/