The document discusses the truth about Ajax and accessibility. It addresses common misconceptions that JavaScript doesn't work with screen readers and that people with disabilities turn JavaScript off. While code following best practices wasn't read properly by one screen reader, code using document.write for everything was understood almost entirely. The key takeaway is that when built correctly, Ajax applications can be accessible.

1. The Truth about Ajax and Accessibility
UIE Virtual Seminar
June 9, 2011
with Derek Featherstone (@feather)

2. “JavaScript doesn’t work with screen readers”
LS E
F A

3. FA
LS
E
“People with disabilities turn JavaScript o ”

4. What is the truth?

5. We’ve created code that follows “best practice”

6. JAWS didn’t
get it.
Nothing.

7. We’ve seen code that was
de nitely NOT “best practice”

8. // Custom App that uses
// document.write for everything.
// EVERYTHING.
document.write(lastNameInput);
document.write(firstNameInput);

9. JAWS
understood
almost
everything
.

13. The Truth about Ajax and Accessibility
UIE Virtual Seminar
June 9, 2011
with Derek Featherstone (@feather)