University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Lacking Sight But Not Websites: Internet Accessibility and Blind Students at the University of Illinois

Tiffany, Lauren

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/32118

Description

Title
Lacking Sight But Not Websites: Internet Accessibility and Blind Students at the University of Illinois
Author(s)
Tiffany, Lauren
Issue Date
2012
Keyword(s)
  • blind
  • internet
  • accessibility
  • assistive technology
  • screen readers
Date of Ingest
2012-07-04T19:45:16Z
Abstract
How do assistive technologies, particularly screen readers, help blind students at the University of Illinois to navigate the internet for academic purposes? This paper looks into how accessible the internet is for blind students at the University of Illinois and what measures are taken to ensure that their ability to complete their course work is not hindered by their lack of vision. The paper focuses on blind students' use of the internet for academic purposes, rather than social purposes. The use and effectiveness of currently available screen readers and similar assistive technologies was closely observed. Additionally, the accessibility of the University's resources, as well as its compliance to current technology laws and regulations, was put under scrutiny. After collecting and analyzing information, one can conclude that from an academic standpoint, nearly all internet materials used are accessible for screen readers. Additionally, the University is very aware of the need for accessibility and is constantly working to improve the current technology used by blind students.
Series/Report Name or Number
  • English 199/CHP; Spring 2012
  • Instructor, Catherine Prendergast
Type of Resource
text
Language
en
Permalink
http://hdl.handle.net/2142/32118

Owning Collections

Diversity on Campus/Equity and Access PRIMARY
This collection examines ways in which the U.S. university and the American college experience are affected by diversity, and difference. In particular, these student projects examine experiences of diversity on campus, including important contemporary social, cultural, and political debates on equity and access to university resources.