The internet can be a valuable tool for home or business, so Coleg Gwent students have been finding out how to make sure that everyone can enjoy the benefits.
Business students studying web design strategy at Coleg Gwent’s Pontypool Campus recently found out what it’s like to use the web if you are blind or partially sighted, and the technology available to help.
Students explored the theory and guidelines surrounding web accessibility and were visited by local organisation Sight Support (formerly Gwent Association for the Blind).
Sight Support provided ‘Sim-specs’ – glasses which simulate different forms of visual impairment, which enabled the group to experience visual disability first-hand. The group also discussed issues surrounding web accessibility with a registered blind person and enthusiastic internet user.
“I wanted students to think about how design can make the web more accessible for those with visual disabilities,” said tutor David Siddall. “With help from Sight Support, students got the chance to experience some of the accessibility technologies available which make using the web easier for people who are visually disabled.”
