Evaluating the delivery of physical activity for people with developmental disabilities using an online knowledge translation approach: part 1 – web accessibility

Abstract

Background: Knowledge-to-action gap exists in delivering physical activity (PA) to people with developmental disabilities via online platforms. Although web-based platforms have great potential in facilitating the delivery of PA for this target group, the lack of knowledge regarding web accessibility poses a challenge in accessing PA-related information online.Objective: This study evaluates the delivery of PA in terms of web accessibility. It also aims to identify barriers and facilitators in delivering PA knowledge to people with developmental disabilities online to improve web accessibility for the target user group.Methods: The study employs a concurrent nested design incorporating both quantitative (web usability questionnaire) and qualitative data (in-depth interviews). Fifteen pairs of individuals consisting of a person with developmental disabilities and a primary caregiver participated in the study, and three web-based platforms were selected for web accessibility tests and in-depth interviews.Results: The nested analysis provides a quantitative comparison of web accessibility and identifies barriers and facilitators of delivering PA for the target user group from the web accessibility perspective. Conclusion: The study findings could inform the development of accessible online platforms that distribute health-related knowledge to populations with developmental disabilities. Additionally, they could help enhance the design of other platforms intended for these populations.