4. A Home for All
Standard: 2‐IC‐21: Understand issues related to bias and accessibility in the design of existing technologies
As you watch the fireflies interact with your device, you notice that some do not use the buttons to send messages, but rather flutter fitfully around the devices or ignore the buttons entirely. “Why don't they send messages?” you wonder. “Are they unable to use the device, or are they uncomfortable?”
Your Guide shakes her head. “Remember, you initially set up the device to only be usable by one type of firefly, Photinus brimleyi. There are many, many other types that have their own needs, and unfortunately, your device isn't able to serve them.”
This is a surprising and unwelcome bit of news. “I should have thought of attracting other types of fireflies from the beginning, I guess,” you say, sadly. “It's a lot like all the other types of devices that are built today,” notes the Guide. “A lot of them can only be used by a small set of people to do a limited number of things.” You start to wonder about all the computers and smart devices out there. How usable are they for everyone?
Do Some Research
Accessibility is a hugely important topic in the field of computing. It's not just about the technology, but also about the people who use it.
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