Evaluating accessibility features of tutorial creation software

Abstract

Purpose -This paper seeks to compare the accessibility features and ease of use of three tutorial creation products -Camtasiaw 6 (by TechSmithw), Captivatew 4 (by Adobew), and VoiceThreadwto determine which product creates the most accessible tutorials. Design/methodology/approach -The paper tested the accessibility of the tutorials created using Camtasia, Captivate, and VoiceThread against the Voluntary Product Accessibility Templatew (VPATw) criteria. The tests were completed using JAWSw, a screen-reading software application. Results were compared to determine which product(s) created the most accessible tutorials. The products' ease of use and user manuals were also evaluated. Findings -Camtasia and Captivate exceed VoiceThread in terms of accessibility compliance. In testing the products, the paper concluded that the VPATs were accurate, with minor exceptions. All products provide user manuals and help guides; Camtasia and Captivate have steeper learning curves than VoiceThread. Research limitations/implications -This study compares only three of the available tutorial creation products. Accessibility features may change with new versions. Practical implications -The results of the evaluation will enable other librarians to make more informed decisions when purchasing and using tutorial creation products. Social implications -Ensuring accessibility of online resources is everyone's responsibility. This paper will help readers to meet that goal. Originality/value -While there are comparison studies of the features of Camtasia, Captivate, and VoiceThread, accessibility features are largely uncovered. This study adds this dimension to the literature, enabling librarians to make more informed decisions when selecting and using these products to create accessible tutorials.

Improving Screencast Accessibility for People With Disabilities: Guidelines and Techniques

“…Wakimoto and Soules (2011) evaluate major screencast creation software programs according to U.S. government guidelines for accessibility, and find that only two, Camtasia and Captivate, can create accessible screencasts. They point out that are many other tools for screencast creation available.…”

Reference Services for Distant Students With Disabilities

“…An earlier article by Wakimoto and Soules (2010) reviewed three tutorial creation products for accessibility of their end products, and concluded that Camtasia and Captivate provided more accessible results but were more difficult to use. This finding was verified by Oud (2011), but she cautions that there are still potential barriers to accessibility even when using these two products and that these must be attended to by the tutorial's creator.…”

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“…Another criterion considered was the accessibility of the materials. Accessibility refers to the efforts to follow Section 508, in which educational institutions provide all students with equal access to campus information technologies (Wakimoto & Soules, 2011). This is to ensure that all students, regardless of (dis)ability, can succeed academically.…”