Fall 2021
INF 385T Special Topics in Information Science: Accessible UX
*some weekly class meetings may be conducted online as instructor circumstance requires.
DESCRIPTION
Accessible UX provides students working (or planning to work) in any area of UX, Digital Product Management, or Development with key skills and insights into the current accessibility landscape, in addition to specific guidelines and WCAG conformance specifications. The course is divided into foundational and tactical modules. The first half of the course provides a comprehensive overview of Accessibility and its importance. The second half of the course involves evaluating real-world applications and websites per the WCAG guidelines, producing Accessibility reports, planning studies (with persons with disabilities), and designing for accessibility. Course Goals 1. Become proficient in recognizing accessibility issues in key domains 2. Understand successful team and organizational behaviors in Accessibility 3. Learn how Accessible UX and Development is accomplished 4. Evaluate Web and App experiences using the WCAG framework from W3.org/WAI
COURSE NOTES
In this course, students will learn how the Accessibility discipline integrates with an effective UX Design practice. You will understand the foundation of Accessibility and its evolution into what is now a critical component of any product offering or design system. Modern Accessibility represents the effort to remove the obstacles present for people who can’t enjoy the same experiences as others without assistive technology or special accommodations. This goes beyond people with physical disabilities to include cognitive and other challenges. The course will cover relevant legislation and guidelines used by researchers, designers, and content strategists to ensure accessibility, plus current and forward-looking methodologies employed by Accessibility Researchers. We'll also dedicate a portion of the course to Inclusive Design, where we learn how to address and manage the biases that make designs less accessible to people of different socio-economic backgrounds.
PREREQUISITES
Graduate standing.
RESTRICTIONS
Registration priority given to iSchool students. Additional seats may open up for outside students in a later registration period.