Images
Benefits
- Ensures all users of your Web site can access and understand the information conveyed by visual elements through alternative formats
- Differentiate between images that are ornamental and those that are necessary for learning comprehension and retention to assist with reinforcing learning concepts
Context
Visual elements presented in the form of graphics, charts, or video may not be accessible to blind users, low-vision users, or users with cognitive impairment. Description of key visual elements (i.e., elements that are only presented visually) in the form of alternative text, long description, transcripts, or audio description, makes these elements more accessible to users. When describing for educational purposes, the key visual elements are typically those that convey an essential learning goal.
Resources for accessible images
- WebAim's Creating Accessible Images - solid and excellent resource to create images that are accessible
- Description and Captioned Media Program (DCMP) - includes information on what description is, how to do it, resources and learning opportunities, as well as vendor lists
- Using HTML5 and Javascript to Deliver Text-Based Audio Descriptions - a joint project of WGBH/NCAM and IBM defines a process to create text based audio descriptinos for video content.
All inquiries are welcome at accessibility [at] mit.edu.