Introduction

The AccessATE Subject Vocabulary is a browsable application of subject terminology for accessibility resources. The structure and application of the vocabulary is intended to support resource discovery by improving the browsing experience for all users, including those making use of assistive technologies. 

All terms used in the AccessATE Subject Vocabulary are listed below. To browse the AccessATE resource portal using these terms, visit our Tools section.

AccessATE Subject Vocabulary 

Access/Accommodations

Actions, conditions, policies, and processes that enable an individual to effectively perform a job, participate in a learning environment, or otherwise perform functions of daily living.

--Access, Barriers to 

Here are entered works on any action, device or system, design, concept, method, policy or practice that, whether intentional or not, either restricts access to information or makes accessing information more difficult for some.

UF Disability divide; Digital divide

--Emergency preparedness

Equipment or systems, actions, policies and plans, and communications used in preparing for an emergency or natural disaster.

--Inclusive workspaces 

Here are entered works on modifications or adjustments to the work environment or the manner or circumstances under which the position held or desired is customarily performed, that enable an individual with a disability to perform the essential functions of that position. 

RT Access/Accommodations--Universal design, Employment–Workplace diversity

Do not UF Reasonable accommodations (see Legal--Protections against discrimination--Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)) 

--Resource allocation

Here are entered works on the apportionment of available resources (i.e. land, labor, capital, etc.) among different uses, including 1) funding for disability programs and services; 2) the purchase of assistive technologies; and 3) investments in physical accommodations.

--Responsive web design

An approach to web design where content on a web page is rendered (i.e. displayed) differently, depending on the screen size and orientation of the device used, without using device-specific versions of the page.

--Universal design

An approach to accessibility that concentrates on making all aspects of an environment—both digital and physical—accessible to all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.

RT Access/Accommodations--Inclusive workspaces

UF Barrier-free design 

Do not UF Teaching and learning (see Education--Universal Design for Learning)

--Web accessibility

Here are entered works on 1) inclusive practices in web design and development that promote equal access to information and functionality by all; 2) reducing and/or eliminating barriers that prevent interaction with, or access to, web content by people with disabilities.

May be applied in conjunction with Access/Accommodations--Responsive web design or Access/Accommodations--Universal design when a single entry is not sufficient on its own; otherwise, select only the most appropriate of the three.

 

Assistive technologies

Assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices, equipment, software, and other tools used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities or otherwise assist individuals in utilizing technology.

--Auditory interpretation

Hardware and software designed to aid the user with the interpretation of auditory outputs.

Narrow with --Captioning (use for: closed captioning, open captioning, subtitling)

--Non-auditory alerts (use for: light signalers, vibration devices, etc.)

--Transcription

--Information and resource management tools

Applications, software, or other tools used to support users with cognitive activities, such as thinking, reasoning, and remembering. 

UF Concept or mind mapping platforms, note-taking apps, information organization software, etc.

--Input devices

Equipment designed to aid the user with entering information into a computer or other technology.

UF Computer input equipment

Narrow with --Alternative keyboards (use for: Braille keywords, keyboards with larger- or smaller-than-standard keys, alternative key configurations, keyboards for use with one hand, keyboard filters, keyboard emulation, keyguards, on-screen keyboards, and other non-standard keyboards) 

--Electronic pointing devices (use for: devices controlled by ultrasound, infrared beams, eye movements, nerve signals, brain waves) 

--Joysticks 

--Mice and trackballs

--Microphones

--Sip-and-puff systems (use for: devices activated by inhaling or exhaling)

--Touch screens

--Trackpads 

--Wands and sticks

--Mobility aids

Hardware and software designed to aid the user with mobility needs. 

Do not UF Mobility input devices (see Assistive technologies--Input devices--Wands and sticks, etc.)

--Reading tools 

Hardware and software designed to make text-based materials more accessible for people who are new to or have difficulty with reading, including foreign language learners, new readers, readers with learning disabilities, etc. May be applied in conjunction with other Subject (Broad) terms for assistive technologies, e.g. Assistive technologies--Visual/textual interpretation--Braille output devices, etc.

--Speech interpretation

Software or service that interprets speech as input. For input devices that register speech, use Assistive technologies--Input devices--Microphones

Narrow with --Speech recognition (use for: voice recognition systems and software)

--TTY/TDD conversion 

--Visual/textual interpretation

Device or service that aids the user with the interpretation of visual or textual content. For Braille input devices, use Assistive technologies--Input devices--Alternative keyboards

Narrow with --Audio description (use for: descriptive video, described video)

--Braille output devices (use for: Braille embossers, refreshable displays)

--Magnifiers (use for: screen enlargers, closed circuit television magnifiers, video magnifiers)

--Screen readers

--Text-to-speech (use for: TTS, speech synthesizers)

 

Communication

The means, mode, and practices that govern or facilitate communication by, to, about, and between people.

--Augmentative and alternative speech

Facial expressions, body language, gestures, sign language, letter or symbol boards, communication books, or any other communication device, system, strategy or tool—other than natural speech—that enhances or improves a person’s ability to communicate. For input devices that register speech, use Assistive technologies--Input devices--Microphones.

Narrow with --American Sign Language

--Circles of support 

A group of people selected by a person with a disability to discuss and plan ways to achieve personal goals. A circle can include friends, family, faculty, classmates, co-workers, professionals, and other members.

--Disability access symbols

Images or icons used to indicate the presence of an accommodation or service to improve access for a person with a disability. 

--Disability disclosure

Here are entered works on the communication that takes place between an employer, academic institution, etc. and an individual with a disability about said disability. 

--Disability etiquette 

Here are entered works on the respectful interaction of any person with a person with a disability, both in terms of physical contact and the use of language/terminology.

UF Disability awareness

Narrow with --People first language

--Disability history

Here are entered works on past events, beliefs, practices, etc. as they relate to disability and accessibility. 

--Disability in literature

Here are entered works on the depiction of disability or disability topics in literature. Works that are intended to educate or inform about specific disabilities are entered under the category Disabilities.

--Neurodiversity

Here are entered works on social and advocacy concepts that promote the acceptance and celebration of neurological diversity and differences. May be used in conjunction with other subjects that describe differences, diseases, conditions, or limitations. 

UF Neuro-divergent

--Suicide prevention

Here are entered works on the tools, services, and programs offered to aid in the prevention of suicide among all populations.

 

Disabilities

Any condition of the body or mind that makes it more difficult for the person with the condition to do certain activities (activity limitation) and interact with the world around them (participation restrictions). [Def: CDC]

--Deaf-blindness

Significant combined loss of both senses (hearing and visual). 

--Diseases

Here are entered 1) a wide range of illnesses and medical conditions, encompassing both communicable and non-communicable diseases, acute or chronic; or 2) works covering multiple diseases. 

Narrow with a specific medical condition.

--Early intervention 

Here are entered works on programs and services designed to provide support, therapies, and assistance to young children who may be at risk for developmental delays or disabilities.

--Hearing

Here are entered works on hearing loss, regardless of severity of loss, or other hearing conditions where an individual can benefit from the use of assistive technologies and/or depends on written or other visual methods of communication.

UF Hearing impaired

Narrow with --Deafness (use for: total loss of hearing) 

--Hard of hearing (use for: partial loss of hearing)

--Tinnitus

--Intellectual, cognitive and learning differences

Here are entered 1) works on variations in intellectual functioning, cognitive processes, and learning abilities; or 2) works covering multiple intellectual, cognitive and/or learning conditions. 

Narrow with a specific medical condition.

--Invisible disabilities, Living with

Here are entered works on 1) the experiences, opinions, beliefs, and values of individuals who are living with disabilities that cannot be easily seen or recognized by others; 2) knowledge, skills, habits, coping mechanisms and the like that may impact the experience of an individual with a non-visible disability. May be used in conjunction with other subjects that describe diseases, differences, conditions, or limitations. 

UF Hidden disabilities; Non-visible disabilities

--Language and speech

Here are entered 1) works on the processes of language development, speech production, communication differences, and language acquisition; or 2) works covering multiple conditions. 

Narrow with a specific medical condition.

--Mental health and psychosocial well-being

Works 1) on a wide range of mental health experiences, including psychiatric conditions, challenges related to psychological and social well-being, and the impact of mental health on overall wellness; or 2) covering multiple mental health conditions. 

Narrow with a specific medical condition.

--Mobility limitations and physical variances

Physical limitations or variations, regardless of severity, where an individual can benefit from the use of assistive technologies and/or other mobility/physical aids.

--Neurological and neurodevelopmental differences

Works 1) on challenges related to neurological functioning and neurodevelopmental variations; or 2) covering multiple neurological conditions. 

Narrow with a specific medical condition.

--Pain

Here are entered works on the 1) causes, treatment, or management of physical pain, regardless of severity; 2) limitations or other impacts of experiencing pain, chronic or otherwise. For pain of a non-physical nature, consider applying Disabilities--Visible disabilities, Living with or Disabilities--Invisible disabilities, Living with, as appropriate.

--Visible disabilities, Living with

Here are entered works on 1) the experiences, opinions, beliefs, and values of individuals who are living with disabilities that may be apparent to others; 2) knowledge, skills, habits, coping mechanisms and the like that may impact the experience of an individual with a visible disability. May be used in conjunction with other subjects that describe diseases, differences, conditions, or limitations.

--Vision

Here are entered works on vision loss, regardless of severity of loss, or other visual conditions where an individual can benefit from the use of assistive technologies and/or depends on verbal or other auditory methods of communication.

UF Vision impaired

Narrow with --Blindness

--Color blindness (use for: color vision deficiency)

--Low vision

 

Education

Educational practices, academic environments, and issues affecting the opportunity for education and educational success.

--Academic and industry collaborations

Partnerships between an educational institution and one or more companies, whether for profit or nonprofit. Partnership models include advisory boards, curricular development and review, equipment access or demonstrations, faculty professional development, incubation and entrepreneurship, instructional support, mentoring programs, program support, sponsored research, and workplace-based learning.

Do not UF Workplace apprenticeship programs (see Employment--Training and skill building)

Narrow with --Workplace-based learning (use for: co-op learning, accredited internships, job shadows, practica, etc.)

--Academic success

Here are entered works on 1) the extent to which a student meets or can meet the expectations of the educational institution; 2) progress made towards earning an academic credential; or 3) the extent to which a student meets or can meet one’s own individual educational goals.

RT Education--Learning, [...]

UF Academic achievement; Academic success, Barriers to

Do not UF Learning outcomes (see Education--Assessment practices)

--Assessment practices 

Any practice, process, or method—whether formal or informal—of defining, selecting, designing, collecting, analyzing, interpreting, communicating, or using data to review a student’s progress toward academic proficiency, learning, or development. Use to describe any diagnostic, formative, summative, ipsative, norm-referenced, or criterion-referenced assessment methods.

--Curriculum development

Here are entered works that aim to instruct, aid, or otherwise support educators, instructional designers, or others in the analysis, design, selection, formation, or review of learning resources at all grade levels. May be applied in conjunction with  Education--Universal Design for Learning.

--Diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA)

Here are entered works on 1) any policy, practice, process, method, standard, or other behavior that aims to promote diversity, equity, and/or inclusion at an academic institution; 2) creating diverse institutions where all individuals are treated with respect, and the presence and participation of underrepresented groups is encouraged.

--Inclusive practices in the classroom

Here are entered works that describe a policy, practice, process, method, standard, or other behavior that aims to promote diversity, equity, and/or inclusion specifically in a classroom environment.

--Learning, Barriers to 

Here are entered works that describe any process, technique, strategy, action, or application that creates or exacerbates challenges for an individual or group of individuals in strengthening or otherwise improving understanding, knowledge, attitudes or behaviors, skills, mental or physical abilities, comprehension, or appreciation—whether or not such activities take place in an academic environment. 

--Learning, Effects of assistive technologies on 

Here are entered works that describe how assistive technologies impact an individual’s ability to engage with learning materials—whether or not such activities take place in an academic environment.

--Learning, Effects of medication on 

Here are entered works that describe how prescription drugs or other medical interventions impact an individual’s ability to engage with learning materials—whether or not such activities take place in an academic environment.

--Program design and evaluation

The design and evaluation of programs, projects, units, and departments in supporting individuals with disabilities.

Do not UF Academic evaluations of students (see Education--Assessment practices)

--Recruitment and retention

Here are entered works that describe 1) policies, activities, etc. that focus on attracting students to an academic institution or its individual programs; 2) policies, activities, etc. that focus on improving the student experience through participation in academic, social, cultural, or athletic offerings on campus.

--Teaching principles and practice

Here are entered works that describe any principle, practice, process, technique, action, approach, or strategy that is deployed by an educator in the instruction of one or more learners. Use only for instruction that takes place in an academic environment. May not be applied in conjunction with  Education--Universal Design for Learning

Do not UF On-the-job training (see  Employment--Training and skill building)

--Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

A framework for designing curricula that enable all individuals to gain knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm for learning (def: CAST) May be applied in conjunction with  Education--Curriculum development

 

Employment

Resources, skills, and training opportunities for the employment of persons with disabilities.

--Career information

Specific information regarding a job or occupation, such as wages, employment trends, knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs), education and training, etc. 

--Job placement

A service offered by educational institutions, employment agencies, and recruiters to help individuals find work.

--Job readiness

A general set of skills and behaviors that are necessary for any job. 

UF Soft skills; Employability skills

--Job seeking

Here are entered works that discuss 1) a set of skills and behaviors that are necessary for researching, finding, applying for, or interviewing for job opportunities; 2) actions planned or taken in the pursuit of employment.

--Training and skill building

Here are entered works that discuss 1) a hands-on method of teaching the skills, knowledge, and competencies needed for employees to perform a specific job within the workplace; 2) learning opportunities available through an employer or at a place of employment that are not offered in collaboration with an academic institution.

UF Employee development; Employee training; On-the-job training; Un-accredited internship programs 

Do not UF Accredited internship programs (see  Education--Academic and industry collaborations--Workplace-based learning) 

Narrow with --Apprenticeship programs

--Workplace diversity

Here are entered works on 1) any policy, practice, process, method, standard, or other behavior that aims to promote diversity, equity, and/or inclusion in a work setting; 2) creating diverse work environments where all individuals are treated with respect, and the presence and participation of underrepresented groups is encouraged.

 

Legal

The laws, legal actions, and protected rights of all people, including individuals with disabilities and Veterans/service members. 

--Advocacy 

Here are entered works on the legal processes of enabling or otherwise supporting people to express their views, to access information and services, and to generally secure legal rights.

--Protections against discrimination 

Here are entered legal works 1) on the policies, procedures, and actions that employers take or must take to promote equal employment opportunities; 2) on the policies, procedures, and actions that any institution takes or must take to promote equal access.

RT Access, Barriers to

Narrow with --Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (use for: works describing the legal term, requirements of, or implementation of reasonable accommodations)

--Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (use for: P.L. 94-142 or the Education for all Handicapped Children Act of 1975)

--Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (use for: Sections 501, 503, 504, and 508)

--Disability benefit programs

Here are entered works on federally- or state-supported resources, programs, or services that provide individuals with disabilities and Veterans/service members with financial support; health-related coverage; recovery and rehabilitation services; direct supportive services; education; training and employment; etc.
 

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Source

Creators: Internet Scout Research Group, University of Wisconsin, Madison

Latest Version:

• AccessATE-Subject.txt
• AccessATE-Subject.voc

Release History: 2023-07, 2023-11

Cataloger Guidelines: https://accessate.net/cataloging

Summary: This document introduces the AccessATE Subject Vocabulary, a list of subject terms for describing accessibility and disability resources. Published by Internet Scout Research Group at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in July 2023, this vocabulary was created in support of the project AccessATE: Making Community College Technician Education More Accessible for Everyone (https://accessate.net), with funding from NSF DUE 1836721. To comment on this document, please contact us at [email protected].