Experiencing Data Visualization With Language Disability

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Accessibility Research
• Linguistic Studies

Background:

• Data visualization research predominantly overlooks individuals with language disabilities.
• Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and aphasia are significant language impairments affecting communication.
• Understanding user experiences with data visualization among these populations is critically underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the daily experiences of individuals with DLD or aphasia interacting with data visualizations.
• To identify instances of inclusion and exclusion related to data visualization engagement.
• To inform the development of more accessible data visualization practices.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative diary study was conducted over one week.
• Participants living with DLD or aphasia documented their encounters with data visualizations.
• Data collected included types of visualizations, tasks, application domains, and experienced challenges.

Main Results:

• Participants demonstrated exposure to and engagement with data visualizations in their daily routines.
• Experiences of both inclusion and exclusion were reported, alongside specific challenges faced.
• Commonly encountered data visualization tasks and application domains were identified.

Conclusions:

• There is a significant gap in data visualization research regarding language accessibility.
• Findings underscore the necessity for greater awareness of language access needs in data visualization design.
• Further research is crucial to develop inclusive design practices for individuals with language disabilities.