A challenge to web accessibility metrics and guidelines: putting people and processes first

Authors:
Martyn Cooper;David Sloan;Brian Kelly;Sarah Lewthwaite
Affiliations:
Open University, Milton Keynes, UK;University of Dundee, Dundee, UK;UKOLN, University of Bath, Bath, UK;King's Learning Institute, King's College London, London, UK
Venue:
Proceedings of the International Cross-Disciplinary Conference on Web Accessibility
Year:
2012

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Abstract

This paper argues that web accessibility is not an intrinsic characteristic of a digital resource but is determined by complex political, social and other contextual factors, as well as technical aspects which are the focus of WAI standardisation activities. It can therefore be inappropriate to develop legislation or focus on metrics only associated with properties of the resource. The authors describe the value of standards such as BS 8878 which focus on best practices for the process of developing web products and include a user focus. The paper concludes with a case study that illustrates how learning analytics could provide data to support the improvement of the inclusivity of learning resources, providing a broader perspective beyond the digital resource.