Towards Generalised Accessibilityof Computer Games Introduction to the Special Thematic Session

摘要

This is the fourth time that a Special Thematic Session on accessible entertainment has been organised at ICCHP and we are beginning to see progress in the field. A decade ago most work focused on how to play computer games with alternative devices; today we are starting to talk about the accessibility of mainstream games. People with disabilities probably make up the single group benefiting the most from Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Not only does ICT improve their ability to do things which could be done another way, but it makes a real difference to independent living: with the support of Assistive Technology (AT) they are actually able to do things they had no chance of achieving before and this in an independent way. This positively affects many situations in their daily lives, at school as well as at work or home and concerns mobility and other issues. It seems important that children get used to using technology as early as possible. Computer games are often good training for using AT, for children as well as for adults faced with disability after accidents or illness for example. Playing games also contributes considerably to acquiring and improving skills needed when dealing with computer interfaces.