APLICAÇÃO DAS DIRETRIZES WCAG NO DESENVOLVIMENTO DE INTERFACES WEB ACESSÍVEIS: UM ESTUDO DE CASO

Abstract

This course completion work aims to explore the topic of accessibility in information technology, focusing on how people with disabilities can access digital content efficiently. For this, different sources of information were used, including scientific articles, reports, manuals and books. Initially, the concept of accessibility was addressed, defining it as the ability to allow all people to have access to information and technologies, regardless of their physical or mental abilities. Then, the different types of disabilities were presented, such as visual, auditory, motor and cognitive, with the aim of understanding the specific barriers that each one faces when accessing digital content. The role of assistive technologies was highlighted, such as the screen reader, which allows visually impaired people to access digital content, and the virtual keyboard, which helps people with motor disabilities to type. In addition, responsive design techniques and inclusive design strategies were explored, such as creating specific fonts for dyslexia, which can improve the access experience for people with disabilities. To illustrate the practical application of these guidelines, a case study was carried out on a real website, in which accessibility barriers were identified and corrected, with emphasis on those that affect screen reader users. Finally, it was concluded that accessibility is fundamental to ensure digital inclusion and equal opportunities for all people, regardless of their physical or mental abilities. It is important for information technology developers to consider the needs of users with disabilities from the beginning of the development process, in order to ensure that digital content is accessible to all.