WebAIM - Web Accessibility In Mind

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Re: Accessible Form Validation Errors

for

From: julian.rickards@ndm.gov.on.ca
Date: Sep 3, 2004 11:00AM

"When using java-script it is necessary to make all features keyboard
accessible - not just for those on screen readers but for anyone who must
depend upon keyboard navigation, this includes people with motor/physical
disabilities as well. This is a requirement of both WCAG guidelines and sec
508."

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Agreed.

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"If the error message opens in a new window the user should be
warned that a new window will be opening - difficult to do in the context of
an error message - and then must have an easy method for closing the window.
If the error message "pops up" on the existing page then a screen reader
will start reading the item over again - this behavior is best tested using
a screen reader."

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Is there a distinction between JS alert pop-ups and new window pop-ups? In
many cases, some form of message may be provided to the user regarding the
opening of a new window but I don't think a warning is possible for JS alert
messages? I believe alert messages are keyboard accessible because the
OK/Cancel/Close buttons may be closed using a keyboard.

Jules

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Julian Rickards
A/Digitial Publications Distribution Coordinator
Publication Services Section,
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines,
Vox: 705-670-5608 / Fax: 705-670-5960