1. Module
    1. Why do I need captions, transcripts, and videos that can be navigated using the keyboard?
    2. How can I ensure that users can navigate through videos using their keyboard?
  2. Video
    1. Video Transcript

Estimated time to complete: 6 minutes

Module

Why do I need captions, transcripts, and videos that can be navigated using the keyboard?

The short answer is that these features make videos more accessible. Individuals with disabilities that affect their hearing may require captions and/or transcripts to access the audio content of the video. Individuals with mobility or dexterity impairments may use their keyboards, or assistive technology interfacing with their keyboards, to navigate web content.

As such, captions and transcripts provide a text alternative to audio, while being able to navigate through videos using a keyboard enables compatibility with a wider range of hardware.

Thinking back to Module 1, remember that one accessibility solution can benefit many individuals in different scenarios. Captions and transcripts are a great example of this effect. For example, a transcript provides a text alternative for someone who cannot hear the video, as well as a scannable document for someone looking for a specific quote, or a less strenuous form of content for someone with a weak Internet connection

How can I ensure that users can navigate through videos using their keyboard?

The simplest way to ensure that your videos are accessible using keyboard functionality is to host them on YouTube. YouTube has many keyboard functions built in to help users navigate through videos. Furthermore, many users are familiar with this platform and its navigation tools.

If you need to use another video hosting platform, please ensure that users can play and pause the video, change the volume, skip forward and rewind, and turn on captions and full screen using the keyboard. If this functionality is not available, consider a different video hosting platform or contact the platform to suggest additional functionality.

Video

Video Transcript