# computer accessibility

> ability of a computer system to be used by all people

**Wikidata**: [Q3097841](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3097841)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_accessibility)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/computer-accessibility

## Summary
Computer accessibility refers to the ability of a computer system to be used by all people, including those with disabilities. This encompasses features like speech synthesis, closed captioning, keyboard shortcuts, and specialized hardware like switch access devices. The field aims to ensure equal access to technology for everyone.

## Key Facts
- Computer accessibility includes tools like Dasher, designed to assist users with disabilities.
- John C. Tang, an American computer scientist, has contributed to accessibility research.
- Berkeley Systems, a defunct American software company, was involved in the video game industry.
- Switch access is a specialized computer device for disabled persons.
- Accessibility features include speech synthesis, closed captioning, and keyboard shortcuts.
- The concept is regulated by entities like the U.S. government for web design, software, and hardware.
- Computer accessibility is an instance of both computer hardware and software.
- The term "a11y" is a shorthand for accessibility in digital contexts.
- Accessibility has effects in schools and workplaces.
- The field is closely related to digital accessibility.

## FAQs
### Q: What tools are used for computer accessibility?
A: Tools include Dasher, speech synthesis software, closed captioning, keyboard shortcuts, and switch access devices.

### Q: Who are key figures in computer accessibility?
A: John C. Tang, an American computer scientist, has contributed significantly to accessibility research.

### Q: What industries are regulated for computer accessibility?
A: Industries regulated include web design, software, computer hardware, video recording, multimedia, and telecommunications.

### Q: What is the significance of "a11y" in computer accessibility?
A: "A11y" is a shorthand for "accessibility" and is commonly used in digital contexts to refer to accessible computing.

### Q: How does computer accessibility impact schools and workplaces?
A: Accessibility features ensure that computer systems can be used by all individuals, including those with disabilities, thereby enhancing inclusivity in educational and professional settings.

## Why It Matters
Computer accessibility is crucial for ensuring that technology is usable by everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive abilities. It addresses barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in digital environments, including education, employment, and communication. By integrating accessibility features, computer systems become more inclusive, promoting equal opportunities and reducing digital divides. This field plays a vital role in fostering a more equitable society by enabling all individuals to access and utilize technology effectively. The impact of computer accessibility extends beyond individual users, influencing policies, regulations, and industry standards to create a more accessible digital landscape.

## Notable For
- Pioneering tools like Dasher for assistive technology.
- Regulatory frameworks ensuring accessibility in web design and software.
- The use of shorthand "a11y" in digital contexts.
- Contributions from key figures like John C. Tang.
- Integration of accessibility features in schools and workplaces.

## Body
### Definition and Scope
Computer accessibility refers to the design and implementation of computer systems that can be used by all people, including those with disabilities. This includes features such as speech synthesis, closed captioning, keyboard shortcuts, and specialized hardware like switch access devices. The goal is to ensure that technology is inclusive and usable by everyone.

### Related Entities
- **Computer Hardware**: Physical components of a computer that may include accessible features.
- **Dasher**: A computer accessibility tool designed to assist users with disabilities.
- **John C. Tang**: An American computer scientist known for contributions to accessibility research.
- **Berkeley Systems**: A defunct American software company involved in the video game industry.
- **Switch Access**: A specialized computer device for disabled persons.

### Regulatory and Standards
Computer accessibility is regulated by entities such as the U.S. government, which mandates accessibility standards for web design, software, computer hardware, video recording, multimedia, and telecommunications. These regulations ensure that technology is usable by all individuals, including those with disabilities.

### Impact and Significance
Computer accessibility has a significant impact on schools and workplaces by ensuring that computer systems are usable by all individuals. This includes features like speech synthesis, closed captioning, and keyboard shortcuts, which enhance inclusivity and equal access to technology. The field is closely related to digital accessibility, which encompasses broader digital inclusivity efforts.

### Terminology and Shorthand
The term "a11y" is a shorthand for "accessibility" and is commonly used in digital contexts. This shorthand reflects the importance of accessibility in digital environments and the need for inclusive design.

## Schema Markup
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  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "Computer accessibility",
  "description": "The ability of a computer system to be used by all people, including those with disabilities.",
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## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
2. Quora
3. [Source](https://vocabs.ardc.edu.au/viewById/316)