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Accessibility Crash Course for Web Developers

Handouts

Presented at 2:15pm in Standley II Lab on Thursday, November 17, 2016.

#4549

Speaker(s)

  • Dan Lewis, Clemson University

Session Details

  • Length of Session: 1-hr
  • Format:
  • Expertise Level: Intermediate
  • Type of session: General Conference

Summary

Identify common accessibility issues and dive into the code, discussing how to create accessible web pages by using proper focus techniques, semantics, and design.

Abstract

Accessible websites are built with robust focus techniques, proper semantics, and thoughtful design. Focus techniques, including the use of tabindex and JavaScript’s focus method, enable users to navigate websites without a mouse. Proper semantics, such as headings, labels, regions, and tables, allow users to effectively navigate and understand web content. The use of color and other design considerations impact users with low vision and other disabilities.

Starting with the basics, accessibility best practices are presented, identifying issues that prevent users from interacting with web content. Code samples are provided to demonstrate the impact of accessibility issues and their resolution. Advanced topics are explored, including ARIA, form errors, complex widgets, live regions, and single page apps.

Keypoints

  1. Understand the basics of web accessibility evaluation
  2. Learn how to correct common accessibility issues
  3. Recognize the importance of human evaluation beyond automated tools

Disability Areas

Cognitive/Learning, Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Mobility, Vision

Topic Areas

Assistive Technology, Web/Media/App Access

Speaker Bio(s)

Dan Lewis

Dan Lewis is a Systems Programmer at Clemson University. As part of Clemson’s mobile development team, Dan is responsible for developing responsive web applications for the university’s community, students, faculty, and staff. Dan has a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This is his fourth year attending the AHEAD conference.

Handout(s)