Analyzing barriers for people with hearing loss on the web: A semiotic study

Abstract

The correct interpretation of Web content by users is a major condition for an effective and accessible Web. However, many people with hearing loss have difficulties interpreting long and complex texts. In this work, we investigated barriers in the usage of Web systems by users with hearing loss. A participatory study with 21 users with hearing loss was conducted in the city of Macapá in Brazil. All the participants use internet frequently, but have different profiles, and reading and writing skill levels. Artifacts and methods from Organizational Semiotics were employed in the elicitation and analysis of problems, barriers, as well as solutions with the participants. The results provide alternatives that range from simple design directives to solutions that demand further research. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.