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Accessible Software | Chat Logs

Use Accessible Chat Software

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Students Affected: Students with mobility impairments.Students who are blind.Students with low vision. Students with specific learning disabilities.

Principles: Degrade Gracefully


What it Means | How it Works


What It Means

A number of different chat options exist, including Instant Messengers (AOL Instant Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, MSN Messenger, etc.), Internet Relay Chat (IRC), and Web-based chats (Java and/or HTML). The real-time nature of chats may make it difficult for Link opens in new window.screen reader users, people who use the keyboard to navigate, and individuals with learning or reading impairments to keep up with the conversation and receive all the content. The chat software you use can have major implications for accessibility.

If You Do It Wrong: Students who use assistive devices, including screen readers, may not be able to join the chat.

If You Do It Right: Students who use screen readers or the keyboard to navigate are able to join the discussion. 


How It Works

  1. When choosing a chat platform, make sure accessibility is one of the product features.

  2. The chat interface should be intuitive and simple to use.

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