12 Interactive Portion
Manahal Khalil
Activity: Evaluate a Piece of Technology for Potential Biases:
- Choose a Technology: Select a piece of technology, such as a smartphone app, a website, or a device. For this activity, let’s choose a popular fitness tracking app.
- Analyze for Biases: Use the criteria from Shew (2022) and Costanza-Chock (2020) to identify potential ableist biases. Consider the design, implementation, and usage phases.
- Design Phase: Evaluate the app’s design for inclusivity. Does it offer customizable options for users with different abilities? For example, can users adjust font sizes, colors, or interface layouts? Consider if the app assumes all users can engage in the same types of physical activities at the same intensity level, potentially excluding users with disabilities.
- Implementation Phase: Look for accessibility features in the app. Does it comply with established accessibility guidelines, such as providing support for screen readers or offering alternative input methods? Consider if the app is compatible with assistive technologies commonly used by individuals with disabilities.
- Usage Phase: Consider the usability of the app for users with different abilities. Does it offer multiple ways to interact, such as voice commands, touch gestures, or keyboard shortcuts? Evaluate if the app provides adequate feedback and guidance for users who may have difficulty navigating or understanding certain features.
- Discussion: Share your findings with peers. Discuss how the identified biases could be mitigated and propose improvements for more inclusive design.