26 August 2010
Last month, we reported on headlines, fresh from Amazon, about the rising demand for ebooks, including their prediction that by 2011, sales of ebooks would outperform traditional book sales.
Education providers are also taking note of the growing trend to transfer content onto the web. Last week, Apple announced record downloads for iTunes U, a free catalogue and indexing system for academic audio and video content emerging from universities and colleges around the globe. In a response to the reduced number university places available this year the Open University is preparing itself for another large leap in terms of growth following an increase of 36% in the number of 18 – 21 year olds enrolling for courses during 2009.
A greater quantity of content is heading online, with more dynamic, interactive activities being introduced to enhance user learning and experience. But this does come at a price. Concerns highlighted in the US, particularly for blind or partially sighted students, indicate the growing complexity of providing content that is both cutting edge and accessible. Greater legislation regarding web accessibility will continue to help move organisations, and consumers towards a more inclusive approach to content creation.
In readiness for these improvements, all online retailers, from small boutiques, to large organisations, can make adjustments to ensure their own web activity is as accessible as possible. Government guidance regarding the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) is an obvious starting point. Organisations such as the RNIB provide further information for accessible web design and application. The Web Accessibility Initiative also provides fantastic resources for organisations and developers alike. Read this article for MSO.net's advice on web accessibility.
To discuss any aspect raised in this month’s newsletter please contact a member of the MSO.net team at info@mso.net.
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