Classic accessibility checks fail e-readers

Abstract

Evaluations undertaken for digital materials and technologies that consider accessibility and ease of use for the type of resource – device, software or digital content – tend to be assessed in isolation. In doing so they exclude the importance of the interrelated aspects of accessing eBooks, failing to support the needs of those with print disabilities: such as visual impairment; dyslexia; and/or physical difficulties. Each individual embarking on the process of reading digital texts must: choose an eReading device or application; navigate and access the eBook market-place; decide on or by choice of device or software, accept a type of format; and then interact with the eContent. This paper aims to illustrate how we, by combining a group of accessibility standards, guidelines and criteria, evaluate these facets of eText accessibility using a single review method. The combination of evaluation scores with descriptions has the potential to help users, those supporting the users and those providing or developing content to gain an understanding of accessibility issues that may arise. Since no accessibility guidelines exist specifically for mobile eReader applications, this paper identifies a framework for user-centred accessibility criteria, incorporating all aspects of eReading that could enhance existing guidelines.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Neil Rogers: orcid.org/0000-0001-6159-9342

ORCID for E.A. Draffan: orcid.org/0000-0003-1590-7556

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