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Re: Question on "skip to main content"

for

From: Jared Smith
Date: Sep 25, 2009 2:00PM

On Fri, Sep 25, 2009 at 1:48 PM, Patrick H. Lauke wrote:

> The argument then of course is: if a sighted user has to rely on
> keyboard navigation (or keyboard-like interfaces), then surely they
> should also be using the correct tools (browsers) for that.

I think that many (most?) users that use the keyboard exclusively do
use tools to facilitate keyboard accessibility. The problem is that
standard browsers should all provide at least minimal levels of
keyboard accessibility as is recommended by the User Agent
Accessibility Guidelines. We're not talking anything earth-shattering
here - just basic functionality to navigate by a few common elements
(form fields, headings, lists, etc.) would do tremendous good... and
not only for those that require them - I'd *LOVE* the ability to
browse a page headings using the keyboard (without switching to Opera
to do so).

And while Patrick is participating in this discussion, I think it
fitting to point out a wonderful presentation he gave on some other
aspects of keyboard accessibility: Keyboard accessibility - basic
steps towards a more usable and accessible site -
http://www.splintered.co.uk/news/112/

Jared