In this work, we present the sonification procedure of a visual Web search engine called WhatsOnWeb (WoW) and its usability evaluation. The WoW search engine is based on graphic visualisation algorithms conveying datasets by semantic correlations and clusters through graph-drawing methods. WoW has been developed combining different visual and auditory features in three sonificated layouts that transmit spatial information through acoustic non-verbal events. WoW usability has been evaluated for both visual and sonificated versions with blind and sighted users. Since results show no differences in usability, we conclude that the sonification methodology makes visual content accessible, usable and, therefore, equally learnable for both blind and sighted people.
WhatsOnWeb: A Sonificated Search Engine for Blind People
MELE, MARIA LAURA;FEDERICI, Stefano;MELONI, FABIO
2011
Abstract
In this work, we present the sonification procedure of a visual Web search engine called WhatsOnWeb (WoW) and its usability evaluation. The WoW search engine is based on graphic visualisation algorithms conveying datasets by semantic correlations and clusters through graph-drawing methods. WoW has been developed combining different visual and auditory features in three sonificated layouts that transmit spatial information through acoustic non-verbal events. WoW usability has been evaluated for both visual and sonificated versions with blind and sighted users. Since results show no differences in usability, we conclude that the sonification methodology makes visual content accessible, usable and, therefore, equally learnable for both blind and sighted people.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
