The Purpose:

• To be in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Take into account the specific recommendations put forth by the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI). Our goal is to eventually comply completely with both Level 1 and Level 2 priority recommendations.

• Use the ALT attribute to describe the function of all visuals, including image maps, text graphics, videos, sound clips, and animations.
• With Hypertext links, use text that makes sense when read out of context.
• Avoid "click here"
• One link per line is preferable because the text runs together when read by a screen reader.
• Keep the design as simple as possible. Use HTML to convey content rather than format or layout.
• The most important thing for people with visual and cognitive barriers is keeping the screen uncluttered and using consistent page layouts.
• Placing general outlines of the site or page where the screen reader starts reading helps put the content into perspective.
• Use Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) for format and layout instead of using HTML tables.
• Tables cause special problems for screen readers. Going from left to right, screen readers read across the columns, bumbling the order of the text.
• Frames also pose the same kind of problems, so always include an alternative nonframes version if using frames.
• Test how accessible your web site is.
• Submit your site to Bobby (http://www.cast.org/bobby), a Web site validator.
• Make an appointment to test your site using the "Jaws" software in the Computer Disability Lab in FLC 120B (1-7232 or call Steve Kapaun at 1-8090)
• The web support area in IACC 250 will also have a copy of "Jaws" soon, and the staff will be able to help you understand the feedback you receive from it.
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