Virtual world accessibility: a multitool approach

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Computer-based virtual worlds are increasingly used for activities which previouslyrequired physical environments. However, in its mainstream form, such a virtualworld provides output on a graphical display and is thus inaccessible to a blind user.To achieve accessibility for blind users, an alternative to graphical output must beused. Audio and text are two output methods that can be considered. However,when using audio, care must be taken not to overload the audio channel. Channeloverloading is possible with audio since it is not a selective output medium like thevisual channel, that is, the user cannot choose what he/she wants to hear. Textshould also be treated as audio, since a blind user consumes textual information assynthesized speech. In this research we discuss one possible solution to the problemof channel overloading, by the use of multiple exploration and navigation tools.These tools should allow the user to shape the information provided as audio output.Specially, we discuss the development of a virtual world client called Perspective, enabling non-visual access to virtual worlds by the use of multiple navigation andexploration tools. Perspective also serves as a framework for tool implementationand evaluation. Finally we give recommendations for improvements to currentvirtual world building practices and protocols, as to work toward an accessibilitystandard.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University