Web Design in a Nutshell, 3rd Edition

Input Devices

Assistive technology for input works to provide the same type of functionality that a keyboard and mouse provide. This means that for the most part, you as a web designer or developer simply need to ensure that what you create is operable by both keyboard and mouse. If you can do that, generally the assistive technology will take care of the rest (although some input considerations are discussed later in the chapter).

Some example technologies are:

Alternative keyboards

Alternative keyboards may provide a more functional key layout, be color-coded for cognitive disabilities, include larger keys, have a keyboard overlay or guide that aids in selection of the proper key, or be designed for one-handed use.

Virtual keyboards

A virtual keyboard is one that is displayed on the screen to help people who may have difficulty typing but are able to use a mouse or some other pointing device effectively. Windows XP comes with a basic onscreen keyboard.

Voice recognition software

Voice recognition software makes use of a computer’s audio capabilities to detect a person’s voice for two main purposes: transcribing voice to text and listening for operating commands. Voice command recognition is available at the operating system level (Mac OS X) as well as in voice-capable web browsers, such as the most recent versions of the Opera browser.

Voice Recognition Approaches

Voice recognition software has evolved significantly over the last decade. To activate a web link, you might simply say ...