Mastering Gesture-Based Screen Readers on Mobile Devices - Exploring Teaching and Practice Strategies

Area of Science:

• Assistive Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Accessibility Research

Background:

• Gesture-based screen readers (e.g., VoiceOver, TalkBack) are crucial for digital interaction for visually impaired users.
• A significant gap exists in teaching strategies, resources, and standardized guidelines for these essential tools.
• Currently, no free, universally designed, accessible mobile app exists for practicing screen reader gestures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify best practice strategies for teaching and practicing gesture-based screen readers.
• To analyze challenges in usability, user attitudes, emotions, technical aspects, and guidance.
• To assess the feasibility of a gesture practice app and propose a framework for its development.

Main Methods:

• Observations from an Information Technology (IT) course for visually impaired individuals.
• Analysis of common challenges encountered by users.
• Evaluation of key learning traits and facilitators.
• Assessment of the potential for a dedicated gesture practice application.

Main Results:

• Identified key challenges including usability, emotional factors, and technical hurdles.
• Determined essential traits and facilitators for effective learning of screen reader gestures.
• Highlighted the need for structured learning and practice resources.
• Confirmed the feasibility and potential benefits of a gesture practice app.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for improved educational strategies and resources for gesture-based screen readers.
• A dedicated, accessible gesture practice app could significantly enhance user proficiency and confidence.
• Developing a framework for such an app is a crucial step towards greater digital inclusion for visually impaired individuals.