11 Key Concepts and Terms

Bias in Technology: Bias in technology refers to prejudices or assumptions that can influence the design, development, and functionality of technological products and systems. These biases often stem from the implicit values and perspectives of the designers and developers, which can lead to the exclusion or disadvantage of certain groups of users. Bias can manifest in various ways, including:

• Algorithmic Bias: When algorithms are trained on biased data sets, they can produce discriminatory outcomes. For example, facial recognition systems may perform poorly on individuals with darker skin tones if the training data predominantly features lighter-skinned individuals.
• Design Bias: The physical design of products can inadvertently favor certain user groups over others. For instance, virtual reality headsets that are too heavy or not adjustable may be uncomfortable or unusable for people with different head sizes or neck strengths.
• Accessibility Bias: Technological interfaces that do not consider the needs of users with disabilities, such as websites that are not compatible with screen readers, can exclude these users from accessing digital content and services.
• Cultural Bias: Technologies that do not account for cultural differences, such as voice recognition systems that struggle with non-native accents, can disadvantage users from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Inclusive Design: Inclusive design is a design philosophy that seeks to create products, environments, and experiences that are usable by all people, regardless of their abilities, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.

The core principles of inclusive design include:

• Equitable Use: Ensuring that the design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities. For example, a building entrance that includes both a ramp and stairs allows for equitable access.
• Flexibility in Use: Accommodating a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. This might involve offering multiple ways to interact with a product, such as voice commands, touchscreens, and physical buttons.
• Simple and Intuitive Use: Making the design easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or concentration level. Clear instructions and intuitive layouts can help achieve this goal.
• Perceptible Information: Ensuring that necessary information is communicated effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities. This could involve visual, auditory, and tactile feedback.
• Tolerance for Error: Minimizing hazards and adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions. This might include features like undo buttons or confirmation prompts before critical actions.
• Low Physical Effort: Designing for efficient and comfortable use with minimal fatigue. Products that require less force or dexterity to operate can be more inclusive.
• Size and Space for Approach and Use: Providing appropriate size and space for approach, reach, manipulation, and use, regardless of the user’s body size, posture, or mobility. Adjustable and adaptable workspaces or seating arrangements are examples of this principle.