Video Accessibility
Audio Descriptions
In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice’s final rule was published, updating regulations for Title II of the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and explicitly requiring state and local government websites (including public colleges and universities) to meet specific web accessibility standards. The rule establishes WCAG 2.1 Level AA as the formal accessibility standard for content available on the web. WCAG 2.1 AA requires audio descriptions for pre-recorded video, providing narration of important visual information not available in the audio track, to ensure access for people who are blind or have low vision. Audio descriptions are required when important visual information is presented that isn’t described in the main audio track.
Let’s explore a use case for a form of audio descriptions in all video content.
Why do audio descriptions matter?
Consider this video with less than optimal audio:
Accessible Video (BCCampus Accessibility Bites) 1/2 [1:34]
Reflection
From that video, note some of the useful labels a narrator should include in a video demonstration of a common computer task.
No, didn’t catch that? Let’s try again.
Integrated Audio Description
Now, consider the following video as an example of better practice:
Accessible Video (BCCampus Accessibility Bites 2/2 [1:36]
Simulations presented in videos
- Dyslexia
- Buffering
- Loss of peripheral vision
- Far-sightedness
- Sunshine
- Mobile
- Distraction
Obviously, the effects in the video do not accurately represent the varied experience and access means of viewers, however they provide some indication of what information can be missed when information is not presented and reinforced in multiple modalities.
Why integrated audio descriptions?
Integrated audio description of visual elements, actions, and information help all viewers understand and engage with the same media at the same time.
As a parallel thought, consider that accessible color is essential for color blind users.
But accessible color also benefits:
- Visually impaired users
- Someone printing in black and white
- User viewing on their phone on a sunny day
So, integrated audio descriptions are essential for blind and low-vision consumers.
But integrated audio descriptions also benefit:
- Neurodivergent viewers
- Distracted and tired viewers
- Mobile viewers
- Commuters
- Users with an inconsistent connection
You are not going to have to record separate audio tracks like in the Steamboat Willie example, but to improve the accessibility of your videos you should record better audio tracks.
Mr. Rogers
Mr. Rogers once said he was feeding his fish. However, he did not always announce this activity. A blind viewer wrote in expressing concern that Mr. Rogers was no longer feeding the fish. Going forward, he would announce whenever he fed his fish, using his voice to describe his actions and ensure everyone was included. This simple act can make a huge difference for some.[1]
Move to the next page to learn how to create integrated audio descriptions.
- I could not confirm is this story was genuine or apocryphal. ↵
