An evaluation of the functionality and accessibility of e-readers for individuals with print disabilities

Submitted by mlb78 on Fri, 09/16/2016 - 17:22
TitleAn evaluation of the functionality and accessibility of e-readers for individuals with print disabilities
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2014
AuthorsMaatta, S. L., Bonnici, L. J., and Chen, J.
JournalThe Electronic Library
Volume32
Issue4
Pagination493-507
ISBN Number0420120041
Accession Number99125559
KeywordsAccessibility, E-readers, print disabilities, universal design
AbstractThe current issue and full text archive of this journal is available at www.emeraldinsight.com/0264-0473.htm E-readers for An evaluation of the individuals with print disabilities functionality and accessibility of e-readers for individuals with 493 print disabilities Stephanie L. Maatta Received 18 January 2013 Revised 28 February 2013 School of Library & Info Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, Accepted 3 March 2013 Michigan, USA, and Laurie J. Bonnici School of Library & Information Studies, The University of Alabama, Tucaloosa, Alabama, USA Abstract Purpose - This study aims to examine the usability of three popular electronic reading devices (e-readers) to determine which device provides the best functionality for individuals with print disabilities. Adaptability and flexibility for use with assistive technology are also evaluated. Design/methodology/approach - This study reports the results of a usability test of e-readers and their potential for use by individuals with print disabilities. Students enrolled in a School of Library and Information Science evaluated and compared the devices through a series of tasks designed to measure functionality. Participants completed a series of questionnaires and engaged in small group discussion about the efficacy of the devices. Likert scales and open-ended evaluation were employed in the evaluation and analysis. Findings - Two of the three devices examined offered no accessibility features for individuals with low or no visionwhorequire assistive technologies to use information and communication technologies. The third device, while offering greater universal access functionality for individuals with mild-to-moderate print disabilities, also had weaknesses for individuals with severe print disabilities. Originality/value - With the rapid deployment of e-readers, little research has been completed measuring the accessibility and functionality for individuals with print disabilities in library or educational environments. The paper provides data on the usability of e-readers for users with print disabilities and recommendations for adopting e-reader use in libraries and educational environments. It will inform and guide information professionals seeking to provide greater access to resources for patrons with specialized access needs.
NotesThis article evaluated three e-reader devices for useres with print disabilities. Results indicated that Apple iPad standed out as providing better functions and more accessibile features. Since nowadays most libraries provide lending services of these e-readers, this article could serve as information sources for libraries to choose suitable e-readers to ensure better accessibility and user experience.
DOI10.1108/EL-01-2013-0012