Beyond Automation: Building Inclusive K-12 Digital Experiences Through Collaboration and Manual Testing
taught by:
Jeremy Schmidt
co-presented by:
Tiff Koval
Session Summary
Discover how manual accessibility testing and collaboration with the disability community can bridge gaps left by automated tools, ensuring more inclusive and user-centered digital experiences. This session will highlight overlooked issues and showcase practical strategies for creating accessible K-12 products.
Description
Automated tools provide a strong foundation for accessibility, but they often miss critical elements such as content flow, meaningful alt text, and dynamic usability. By collaborating with students, educators, and accessibility advocates nationwide, we can uncover these gaps and refine technical approaches to build truly inclusive K-12 digital experiences. This session will explore common accessibility issues overlooked by automated testing tools, demonstrate the value of manual testing methods, and share strategies for engaging with the disability community and real-world users to design products that meet diverse needs effectively.
Practical Skills
- Identify and Analyze the limitations of automated accessibility testing tools.
- Learn how to involve the disability community in your guidelines, policies, and design choices.
- Differentiate between Accessibility Compliance and Usability.