Reflecting on this week’s blog prompt questions, some digital accessibility practices that I see that are often missed, that even myself miss, are closed captions on videos. Classrooms are starting to use so much more technology as a resource for students to use, which is amazing. However, closed captions videos are usually missed by those who are hearing impaired (like me) or visually impaired. Additionally, having closed captions cater to learning styles and multimedia introduction to how to be more accessible to those in society. Social media is also a huge part of our generation. Adding closed captions on any television show, tik tok, Instagram, and youtube significantly benefits those who wish to have it or need it.
The lack of these digital accessibility practices is sadly common due to the only 22% of people who have 1 or more disability challenges. Some disabilities go unnoticed if they are not presented by visual appearance. Society usually advocates for most people, not those who struggle with watching or hearing daily videos. Being accommodating and having these resources accessible to those who require them to be successful and get the most out of it. As our society is getting more involved in technology, I have been surprised by the occasional hearing-impaired implementations. For example, when I was on the ferry returning to Victoria from Vancouver for the weekend, I walked by a sign that read: “pair hearing aid to Bluetooth to hear announcements.” This type of accessibility for those who are hearing impaired is fantastic because of emergencies and hearing all the announcements. I enjoyed learning about this week’s learning objectives as it is needed for those with disabilities to be heard and have their accommodations supported to the most we can do for them.