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Summary
There’s a lot to consider if you’re going to do accessibility research effectively and respectfully. Using examples from previous user research and accessibility studies she’s conducted throughout her career, Rebecca shares lessons learned and guidance to consider when planning and executing remote usability testing with participants with disabilities, including the four specific disability categories: visual, motor, hearing and cognitive.
Key Insights
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Remote accessibility research requires careful preparation, including accessibility audits before participant recruitment to avoid frustration.
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About one in five people in the UK and Australia and one in four in the US have disabilities, underscoring the scale of impact accessibility work can have.
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Accessibility encompasses a wide range of impairments including visual, auditory, mobility, cognitive, temporary, and situational limitations.
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Recruitment for accessibility research is often slower and more complex due to specific participant criteria and assistive technology use.
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Recruitment vendors vary widely in their understanding of accessibility; detailed, specific requirements improve participant matching.
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No fully accessible remote research software exists yet; researchers often rely on video conferencing tools like Zoom despite accessibility shortcomings.
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Pre-research calls help build participant comfort, clarify accommodations, and set communication preferences, improving study quality.
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Framing study questions around tasks and product accessibility rather than disability respects participant privacy and reduces discomfort.
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Researchers with disabilities bring valuable lived experience perspectives but should also consider hidden disabilities and broader user diversity.
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Building an internal or external accessibility research panel supports ongoing, efficient participant recruitment and better representation.
Notable Quotes
"Digital accessibility means making your online products usable by everyone regardless of how they access the web."
"It’s vital to QA your product for accessibility before showing it to participants to avoid them blaming themselves for issues."
"People with disabilities are more willing to participate in studies if it’s to make a product they use more accessible."
"Hidden disabilities like mental health or learning difficulties mean some participants might not self-identify or disclose."
"The anonymity of remote research and turning off cameras can help participants who don’t want to disclose their disabilities."
"There aren’t currently accessible scheduling and recruitment tools tailored for participants with access needs."
"When working with sign language interpreters remotely, remember to address the participant directly and allow pauses for interpretation."
"I focus on users’ assistive technology and strategies rather than asking directly about their disability."
"Researchers with disabilities can offer valuable perspectives but understanding different types of disabilities, including hidden ones, is crucial."
"Inclusive consent processes that cover all users’ needs prevent the need for separate forms and reduce friction."
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