Standard Access Research Articles

AI-Powered Semantic Framework for Inclusive Web Accessibility Evaluation

Web accessibility is a critical aspect of inclusive digital experiences, ensuring equitable access for users with diverse abilities. Despite significant advancements, existing automated tools often fail to detect complex and context-specific accessibility issues. This research proposes an AI-powered semantic framework for comprehensive web accessibility evaluation, leveraging artificial intelligence to analyze and interpret web content with a focus on inclusivity and compliance with accessibility standards. The framework integrates semantic analysis to identify nuanced accessibility barriers, such as inadequate alt text, improper heading structures, and color contrast violations, which are often missed by traditional tools. By utilizing machine learning and natural language processing, the proposed solution aims to bridge gaps in guideline interpretation and enhance the detection of user experience challenges. Additionally, this research incorporates user feedback mechanisms and expert insights to continuously refine the framework, making it adaptable to evolving accessibility needs. Extensive testing across diverse web environments demonstrates the framework's ability to improve detection accuracy, reduce evaluation times, and provide actionable insights to developers. The proposed framework not only advances automated accessibility evaluation but also contributes to fostering a more inclusive internet by empowering developers and organizations to proactively address accessibility barriers.

Designing Inclusive Web Applications with Accessibility in Mind

This article explores the critical importance of designing inclusive web applications with accessibility in mind. It delves into the ethical, legal, and business imperatives driving the need for accessible web design, highlighting that over one billion people worldwide live with some form of disability. The article discusses key accessibility standards, particularly the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and outlines essential techniques and tools for implementing and testing web accessibility. These include semantic HTML, ARIA roles and attributes, color contrast considerations, keyboard navigation, and alternative text for images. The article also examines various testing tools such as Lighthouse, WAVE, axe DevTools, and screen readers. Furthermore, it presents a compelling business case for accessibility, emphasizing benefits such as an expanded user base, improved SEO, enhanced brand reputation, and legal compliance. Through comprehensive exploration of these topics, the article underscores that accessibility is not just a regulatory requirement but a fundamental responsibility that leads to better digital experiences for all users

Design and Development Model of a Web Accessibility Ecosystem

The article examines issues of web accessibility ecosystems for people with special needs. Methods, models, accessibility standards, and technologies related to the structure, design, and functionality of the web accessibility ecosystem are studied. The stages of developing an accessibility ecosystem are explored. The accessibility of the design, functionalities, structure, and content of a particular ecosystem are presented. Several themes for the design of the system with an emphasis on its accessibility for blind users are explored and analyzed. UX/UI design and the ontological model of accessibility, used in the implementation of the model of the ecosystem and its elements, are studied. A web accessibility ecosystem model has been developed, compliant with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines and based on semantic technologies. Other qualities of this model are easy access to information resources on the topic of accessibility, convenience for users with different needs, and the possibility of expansion and enrichment in the future.

THE IMPLICATION OF EXTRINSIC MOTIVATION TOWARDS THE LIBRARIAN INTENTION TO ACCEPT RESOURCES DESCRIPTION AND ACCESS (RDA) IN MALAYSIA

The evolution of the information environment towards the digital environment has changed the cataloging standards towards Resource Description and Access (RDA) standards. Hence, this study aims to investigate Malaysian Librarian’s intention to accept RDA based on extrinsic motivation factors. Questionnaires were used to gather data from respondents who are the librarians from National Library of Malaysia. The data were analyzed using SPSS and SmartPLS and the results show that only TFC influenced the librarian's intention to accept RDA rather than PE, EE, and RE. The result of the findings was discussed and some recommendations were proposed.

The Legal Handling of Digital Accessibility: a Comparison of Evaluation and Policy Approaches in Federal-Level Cases in Brazil and the United States

Countries in the Global South still have less well-established procedures and resources to enact public policies and surveillance of digital accessibility. This paper presents a comparative study on the legal handling of digital accessibility in one country in the Global North and one in the Global South – the United States and Brazil. The study analyzed federal-level procedures handled by government surveillance bodies concerning public and private organizations, involving 26 cases in Brazil and 124 in the United States. The results showed that most cases in Brazil were finalized based on automated accessibility evaluations and with little evidence of long-term actions for sustained accessibility. All cases analyzed from the United States resulted in settlement agreements leading to medium to long-term initiatives, which covered continuous verification of conformance to accessibility standards and, in many cases, demanded inspections by accessibility specialists and tests with users with disabilities. The paper discusses the implications of including effective accessibility evaluation methods and long-term solutions in legal cases.

Exploring Sri Lankan Policies and Practices to Manage Health Information Disorder on Social Media: A Qualitative Approach.

Information disorder is problematic in health because it can limit effective treatment options and preventive measures. Interviews were conducted to understand the current policies and practices better. The qualitative analysis resulted in three broad thematic areas, with 115 codes and 12 code groups. Since Sri Lanka is a low- to middle-income country, optimising available resources is crucial; alternative cost-free tools and freely accessible international standards and guidelines can be customised to meet the country's needs.

How ‘Open’ is Distance Higher Education for Students with Disabilities? A Literature Review

This study attempts to answer the question of how "Open" Distance Higher Education is for Students with Disabilities (SwD) through a literature review. To this end, published books, journals, reports, and articles were examined using authoritative research sources such as Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and ERIC. In addition, laws related to Persons with Disabilities and education were also utilized. This paper is divided into four sections, where accessibility in Open and Distance Higher Education is analyzed in relation to SwD more broadly, concluding in the last section by discussing Open and Distance Higher Education and SwD in Greece. The existing literature and related research are very limited. The findings show that Distance Education offers significant opportunities for inclusive education, mainly due to the flexibility it provides. For students with mobility disabilities, Distance Higher Education offers the possibility of education without geographical limitations, especially when physical presence is impossible due to a lack of appropriate accessible building infrastructure. Furthermore, while multiform distance learning material can enhance accessibility, they can also pose barriers for SwD, as all tools and resources need to be accessible to everyone. Subtitles are an important accessibility tool, especially for deaf or hard of hearing learners. Additionally, examinations should be equally accessible to all learners, regardless of their disability. The distance learning material should be based on the principles of Universal Design for Learning. Also, assistive technologies and voice reading software play an important role, especially for visually impaired learners. Assistive technology and AI tools can help students depending on the type of disability. Under the current circumstances, the accessibility of SwD to Distance Higher Education, including in Greece, faces significant challenges. In conclusion, Distance Higher Education has the potential to support inclusive education, but it is necessary to implement appropriate accessibility standards and strategies.

Comparative effects of drug interventions for the acute management of migraine episodes in adults: systematic review and network meta-analysis

ObjectiveTo compare all licensed drug interventions as oral monotherapy for the acute treatment of migraine episodes in adults.DesignSystematic review and network meta-analysis.Data sourcesCochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Medline, Embase,...

User participation in digital accessibility evaluations: Reviewing methods and implications

Although laws and standardization bodies promote user participation in digital accessibility evaluations, people with disabilities still consider themselves excluded from this process. One reason could be the lack of systematized knowledge about evaluation methods involving users. This article seeks to understand how and for what purpose digital accessibility evaluations with user participation were conducted in the scientific literature from 2018 to 2021. Three types of user participation emerged: 1) user-based usability testing to evaluate task accomplishment, user reactions and interface qualities; 2) interviewing users to assess the local and social factors impacting digital service accessibility; 3) using questionnaires or crowdsourcing to check the compliance of certain interfaces with accessibility standards. Participants are primarily chosen based on their functional impairments and, to a lesser degree, their project-related skills, biographical information, technology habits, among other criteria. The comprehensive user insights gained with these methods are judged to be positive whereas the lack of representativeness of the selected user samples is found to be regrettable. The article finally discusses the definitions of accessibility and disability that underpin these methodologies.

Error Analysis in ChatGPT’s MARC21 Records: A Study of RDA Conformity

This study aims to evaluate the accuracy and quality of MARC21 catalogue records generated by ChatGPT using bibliographic data from title pages. The study will shed light on the effectiveness and reliability of automated cataloguing processes utilising AI technology. This involves examining factors such as correctness, consistency, and adherence to Resource Description and Access (RDA) standards. The analysis highlights variations in error rates across different records. Identifying the underlying causes of errors in records with higher rates can help in implementing targeted improvements to enhance the data quality and consistency of ChatGPT-generated catalogue records.

Universal Accessibility in the Design of Public Post Primary Schools: A. Case Study of Birnin Kebbi Metropolis

This research investigates the universal accessibility of secondary school buildings in Birnin Kebbi Metropolis, Nigeria, with a specific focus on understanding and improving physical infrastructure to accommodate diverse needs. Recognizing the fundamental right to education for all, including individuals with disabilities, the study utilizes a case study approach to assess the current state of secondary school buildings in the selected region. Employing a qualitative research approach, specifically an observational study and using an observation checklist as a data collection method, the research aims to identify barriers and challenges to universal accessibility. Key areas of examination include the adequacy of infrastructure, the presence of inclusive design features, and overall compliance with accessibility standards. The research contributes valuable insights to the existing knowledge on inclusive education in Nigeria, shedding light on the current status of secondary school buildings in Birnin Kebbi Metropolis. The findings shows that most of the public secondary schools in Birnin Kebbi were not designed with consideration for inclusiveness. The findings also includes recommendations for policy enhancements, architectural interventions, and awareness campaigns to create a more inclusive and accessible educational environment. By advocating for universally accessible secondary school buildings, the research aims to address the diverse needs of students, fostering an equitable and empowering educational experience for all. Overall, this research bridges gaps in understanding the accessibility landscape of secondary schools in Birnin Kebbi Metropolis. It not only identifies existing challenges but also proposes actionable recommendations for policymakers, architects, and educators to collaboratively work towards a more inclusive educational infrastructure in Nigeria.

Usage of Artificial Intelligence Tools to Improve Digital Web Accessibility

Accessibility of websites considers challenges related to creation of web pages adapted to user with different types of impairments. The goal of web accessibility is to remove barriers that may prevent people with disabilities from accessing or interacting with web content effectively. The paper presents some web accessibility standards and challenges related to their complying. A special attention is paid to some popular artificial intelligence tools and how they could be used to solve accessibility issues on web sites development.

ASSESSMENT OF WEB ACCESSIBILITY REGULATION ADHERENCE BY INSTITUTIONS WITH COMPLIANCE OBLIGATIONS

Web accessibility is crucial for ensuring universal access to information, a value highly regarded by the European Union and the Spanish government, which have enacted legislation mandating compliance, particularly within the public sector and to a lesser extent in the private sector. This study contrasts the commitment of private entities with that of public ones in adhering to web accessibility standards. Initially, a database of URLs, categorized for reference, was compiled. Subsequently, automated web analysis techniques were employed to produce comparative statistics by sector. The findings indicate that while the public sector has made progress in meeting the regulations, the private sector lags considerably behind. An examination of common errors on websites of private companies obligated to these standards suggests that ignorance of legal responsibilities is the primary cause of accessibility shortcomings. Keywords: Web Accessibility, Accessibility Evaluation, Regulatory Compliance, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), Digital Accessibility

Dehumanizing air travel: a scoping review on accessibility and inclusion of people with disabilities in international airports.

Worldwide, one in six individuals live with a disability. Many people continue to experience disabling situations, particularly when travelling. Travel can be an important part of the lives of many people, including people with disabilities. Barriers to accessing air travel can lead to a reluctance to travel for these potential passengers. As early as the flight planning stage, options to facilitate accessibility are limited. At airports, passengers must travel long distances in areas where navigation is complex, and accessibility limited. Furthermore, few aircraft are accessible. The travel experience can have adverse effects on the health of people with disabilities. Practices are sometimes not inclusive, not always available, and may not address the full spectrum of possible needs. The objective of this study is to provide a state of art on accessibility features available to people with disabilities in the busiest international airports. A scoping review of practices in airport accessibility was done. A search strategy was deployed in 4 databases (Avery index to architectural periodicals, Medline, CINAHL, and Web of science). The official websites of the 35 busiest airports were exhaustively consulted. All information regarding accessibility measures and inclusive services were extracted. 31 scientific articles, out of 3,640 screened, and all extracted data from airports' website were considered for synthesis. While efforts are made in major airports, there is a great inconsistency in accessibility features. Both facilitators and challenges are encountered by people with disabilities at every stage of air travel. These stages include journey planning; getting to and from the airport, obtain human assistance, navigate in the premises, check in, security screening, using facilities, boarding and disembarking, customs and immigration procedures, and luggage management. Services need to be extensively planned, placing a significant burden on passengers. The disability-centric perspective disregard passengers' unique needs and capabilities, leading to a sense of dehumanization. The complexity of airport organizations, shared responsibilities, limited communication, training challenges can deter accessibility initiatives and create discomfort during travel. This study is the first step of a broader project supported by Canadian Accessibility Standards, focusing on enhancing inclusive accessibility in Canadian airports.

Effect of Fashion E-Commerce User Experience on Customer Retention in Ghana

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of fashion e-commerce user experience on customer retention in Ghana. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Research indicates that positive user experiences, characterized by intuitive website navigation, efficient mobile interfaces, and responsive customer service, greatly enhance customer retention rates. Users who encounter seamless transactions, personalized recommendations, and reliable delivery services are more likely to return and engage with fashion e-commerce platforms repeatedly. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Theory of planned behavior (TPB), self-determination theory (SDT) & expectation-confirmation theory (ECT) may be used to anchor future studies on effect of fashion e-commerce user experience on customer retention in Ghana. Practically, fashion e-commerce platforms should invest in user-friendly website design and navigation to enhance the overall shopping experience. This includes simplifying the checkout process, ensuring mobile compatibility, and improving site speed. From a policy perspective, e-commerce regulations should include guidelines for user experience best practices. This could involve setting standards for website accessibility, data protection, and user interface design to ensure a positive online shopping experience.

Exploring the user experience, quality, and provision of urban greenspace: A mixed-method approach

Urban greenspace plays a crucial role in city design, offering residents various benefits for their health and wellbeing. With increasing urbanisation and human population growth, urban greenspace is becoming an even more significant resource. By implementing a mixed-method approach, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of urban greenspace based on public usage and perceptions, and quality, availability and accessibility in Derby, UK. Our methodology included an online questionnaire to investigate greenspace usage and perceptions, an in-situ assessment to assess greenspace quality, and Geographical Information Systems analysis to quantify greenspace provision based on Natural England’s (2023) Accessible Greenspace Standards (AGS). We found that greenspace usage and perception vary according to demographic and socioeconomic aspects, with younger people and students showing lower engagement with greenspace. Positive engagement correlates with factors such as proximity, car access, employment, and education. We also found that moderately high levels of greenspace quality (69.47/100) are available in the city, with the most notable insufficiencies related to quietness/peacefulness, aesthetics, and naturalness. Finally, none of the AGS criteria are met at a city-wide scale given the lack of large greenspace sites (particularly over 100 ha) and inequalities in spatial distribution. Our study highlights the value of the use of different methodologies to assess greenspace-related factors and emphasises the significance of public engagement in evaluating greenspace quality. Additionally, we identified factors adversely affecting greenspace use, including parking fees and issues with facilities, amenities, and safety. We therefore recommend interventions to address these challenges and enhance greenspace experience and accessibility in the city.

Assessing the performance of the pedestrian path accessibility standards for people with disabilities

An optimal pedestrian pathway should cater to various user needs, encompassing safety, comfort, and universal accessibility. This research endeavors to evaluate the efficacy of pedestrian pathways, with a particular focus on public green spaces in Kendari City. The study emphasizes the implementation of an inclusive design concept for pedestrian pathways, ensuring the protection and fulfillment of rights for all demographic groups. To achieve its objectives, the research employed both qualitative and quantitative methods. A qualitative case study approach was utilized to assess architectural elements, while a Likert scale was employed for the performance evaluation. The findings from the performance assessment indicate that the service attribute values fall short of being optimal. Observational data suggest that most existing facilities fail to adhere to universal design principles, catering to the needs of all individuals. Consequently, there is a pressing need for physical modifications in the pedestrian pathway areas. These modifications include the installation of ramps, clear markings, and pathways for people with disabilities (guiding blocks), as well as the integration of trees and plants, trash receptacles, traffic signs, and essential utilities such as street lighting and billboards. Furthermore, the research highlights the necessity of organizing street vendor (PKL) zones across all area segments to enhance overall accessibility and usability.

Recent Advances In Interventional Pain Management

Introduction: Due to limited access to therapy, 60 million individuals worldwide suffer from chronic pain, with a frequency of 20–25% in some nations. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are disproportionately affected by this condition. The yearly cost of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease—including medical expenses, lost productivity, and disability programs—is less than that of pain complaints. Pain management techniques, the most recent discoveries in pain research, and the most recent advancements in pain therapy technology can work together to reduce the prevalence of chronic pain and lessen the financial burden that comes with pain syndrome. Objective: To determine the extent to which the latest technological developments in interventional pain management to personalized treatment techniques according to patient complaints and conditions. The scope of technological development here is not only pain intervention techniques but also advances in understanding the pathophysiology of pain, nerve and tissue regeneration, as well as the modalities of technology used for pain interventions. Review: By conducting literature searches including journals, systematic reviews, library surveys, and case reports from the last 10 years on the latest interventional pain management techniques and serial cases. Summary: Many new minimally invasive pain intervention techniques have been developed and used in the treatment of chronic pain within the past 10 years. The necessity for standardization of processes, safety, efficacy, cost, and accessibility to new technology and techniques are among the issues and debates surrounding technical advancements and strategies for managing chronic pain. Intervention pain management techniques have grown in importance as a less intrusive method of treating chronic pain. For optimal outcomes, used in conjunction with other pain management modalities such as medication, physical therapy, cognitive behavioral change therapy, and others.

Standards of Accessibility to Health, Education, Culture and Leisure and The Association With Quality of Life For People With Disabilities

Objective: To evaluate the association between standards of accessibility to health, education, culture and leisure and the quality of life of people with disabilities. Theoretical Framework: Four fundamental rights play a vital role in human development: health, education, culture and leisure. These components are crucial for the general well-being and quality of life of all people, including those with some type of disability (DOS SANTOS; PEREIRA, 2023; MITRA et al., 2013; BEST et al., 2022). Method: 101 patients from the Specialized Center for Rehabilitation for People with Disabilities (CER IV), Rio Grande do Sul participated in the study. The Two Step Cluster method was used as an analytical procedure, which analyzes data in two stages and means comparisons. Results and Discussion: There are two patterns of accessibility to health, education, culture and leisure, with one group being characterized by having high levels of accessibility and another group being characterized by a group of participants with low levels of accessibility. High levels of accessibility to health, education, culture and leisure are associated with significantly higher levels of quality of life, both in general and in the physical, psychological, social relationships and environmental domains. Research Implications: The results presented may be useful to professionals who work with people with disabilities. Originality/Value: These results may also be relevant to guide public policies and interventions aimed at improving accessibility to these resources that are fundamental to promoting a higher quality of life in this population.

Pemasangan Jaringan Internet Berbasis WiFi Untuk Meningkatkan Akses Komunikasi Warga Di Desa Durian

Durian Village is a village located in Janapria District, Central Lombok Regency. Currently, there is an internet network available in Durian Village, but the speed and quality of the internet network in several places is not good. The condition of infrastructure in Durian Village is still very poor, especially internet access is still very limited, while communication needs are increasing. The aim of this community service program is to install a WiFi-based internet network to improve communication access for residents and the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for the people of Durian Village, Janapria District. Internet installation begins with preparing the device and planning the location of the device so that the signal coverage can be wider. Installation of internet network infrastructure where needed and wider coverage for residents. The implementation of the internet installation was also assisted by STMIK Lombok students. After installing the internet network, the internet network signal area is tested. Internet network testing is carried out by testing signal strength and internet speed which is found to be sufficient to meet internet access standards for communication access and running streaming media applications.