1. Importance of Accessibility Standards for Inclusion in the Assessment Industry
CAST and CSA Accessibility Summit

2. Access to Science ETS research in digital accessibility involves:
Developing workable and valid solutions to innovative item types and tasks (including simulations)
Active involvement in accessibility standards groups (W3C, DIAGRAM, IMS GLC) that provide requirements and solutions to the broader community of technology stakeholders (e.g., browser/AT vendors)
CAST and CSA Accessibility Summit

3. Accessibility Technical Standards
Digital delivery is guided by Web accessibility standards (WCAG 2, WAI-ARIA,QTI), and while basic item types have effective/familiar solutions, innovative item types do not (novel test solutions that are seen by students for the first time on a test ARE NOT appropriate).
Our goal is standards-based solutions that can be adopted and used in the classroom prior to being seen on the assessment.
CAST and CSA Accessibility Summit

4. Implementing Accessibility Standards
ETS involvement in standards groups:
IMS Global Learning Consortium
QTI/aQTI, APIP, Access for All, Accessible Assessment Task Force
W3C
WCAG, WAI-ARIA, APA, RQTF
DIAGRAM Center
ETS is focused on correct implementation of technical standards, beginning with the authoring process all the way through to the assistive technologies that will be needed to make these items work in the classroom and on the assessment for students with disabilities.
CAST and CSA Accessibility Summit

5. Conclusion: Innovative Item Accessibility
Across the industry, innovative items lack accessibility, or if it is present, it’s inconsistent with standards or user expectations.
ETS has identified and is conducting research on a number of promising approaches to improve the usability of complex items, from orienting information and extended descriptions to sonification.
Our goal is to disseminate findings when appropriate to promote best practices.
CAST and CSA Accessibility Summit