The Internet acts as a connector for people all over the world, regardless of their location, age, or background. The growth of online journalism in recent years has made it faster than ever to follow the news, consume content, and connect with others.
However, not everyone has the same access to online content. Because most websites were or are initially designed for people without disabilities, many websites, video streaming services, and online news outlets put up unintentional barriers for the disabled community.
Many people with disabilities rely on augmentative alternative communication (AAC) devices to interact with the online world. Things like screen readers, speech-to-text software, and dynamic Braille displays make it possible for people with disabilities to access news and other media in real time.
But the Internet is not automatically accessible to people who are disabled. Changes need to be made to remove barriers created by poor web and content design.
In this article, Ability Central walks you through the basics of accessibility for Internet content: what it is, who it affects, and what it means to make “accessible” content.
Accessibility 101
One of the benefits of the Internet is that it removes some communication barriers many people with disabilities face in in-person interactions. When websites and content are designed to eliminate communication barriers, they become accessible for people with hearing, vision, dexterity, and intellectual or developmental disabilities.
However, when accessibility tools fall short, websites exclude people with these disabilities. Poor design creates more barriers. You might be thinking, “Accessibility is a concern for web designers, not me! I just use the website!” But responsibility is not limited to web developers. Journalists, content creators, and other members of the media can take simple, actionable steps to make their content more accessible.
Who does web accessibility impact?
Accessibility functions, first and foremost, help people with disabilities. Accessible content is beneficial for people who:
Are D/deaf, Deafblind, or hard of hearing (HoH).
Are blind or have low vision.
Are color blind, have color contrast sensitivities, or have low color vision.
Rely on screen readers.
Use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices.
Use speech-to-text, text-to-speech, and voice command software.
Have cognitive, intellectual, or developmental disabilities.
Have physical or dexterity-related disabilities.
Have learning disabilities like dyslexia, dyscalculia, or dysgraphia.
Web accessibility also benefits people without disabilities, including:
People using smart devices, devices with small screens, or different input modes.
People who aren’t confident in their computer skills.
People with “temporary” disabilities like illness, a broken bone, or misplaced glasses.
Older people with changing needs related to aging.
People with situational limitations, like a noisy work environment, bright sunlight, or a need for privacy.
People with limited/expensive bandwidth or a slow Internet connection.
People susceptible to stress injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other conditions related to working with technology.
who simply prefer to use AAC tools like speech-to-text, voice commands, or keyboard-only navigation.
People who use accessibility features to help them multitask (i.e. listening to a news article while washing the dishes).
What is web accessibility?
What does it mean when a piece of content is “accessible”? Web accessibility creates and improves tools, technology, and content so that people with disabilities can access, navigate, and contribute to online communications.
Web content accessibility features include:
Screen reader compatibility.
Optimization for different devices, screen sizes, and inputs.
Color contrast options.
Alt text to describe images.
Safety tools.
Features that adapt to needs that change over time.
Why does web accessibility matter for journalists and media professionals?
Simple tweaks in your content creation and publishing processes can improve accessibility for people with all manner of disabilities. Without these tweaks, you may accidentally build barriers for the people who might most benefit from viewing your content.
Approaching news and media with an accessibility lens will help you distribute your content to the widest audience possible.
For more information on improving accessibility in your web content, see 5 Basic Techniques to Make Online Media Accessible and How to Check Content Accessibility Before Publishing.
This article is part of our series The Journalist’s Guide to Disability in Media: An Overview of Disability Inclusion, Accessibility, and Representation.
Read the full series:
Writing About Disabilities: What to Include and What to Avoid
The Journalist's Guide to Disability in Media: Further Resources
For further information about disability-related media, or to get in contact with members of the Ability Central board and community who are available to speak about their experience or disability, reach out to the Ability Central team at hello@abilitycentral.org.
Additional Information
The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for legal, medical, or other professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date resources, some information may become outdated or incomplete. Always consult with your provider about personal medical concerns.
