by Andrew Cassel | December 5, 2024
Science is discovering Bluesky as a welcome respite from the world of X which is becoming more and more antithetical to the idea of inclusive discourse in which science thrives. As researchers embrace the social networking platform they will find that in order to post an image on the platform they must include Alt Text.
The Significance of Alt Text
Alt text provides textual descriptions of images, enabling screen readers to convey visual content to users with visual impairments. According to the Perkins School for the Blind, alt text “allows individuals who cannot see images to fully engage with and understand the content” (Perkins School for the Blind). Given that over 2 billion people worldwide experience some form of vision impairment (World Health Organization, 2019), the inclusion of alt text is essential for inclusive communication.
Crafting Effective Alt Text in Science
Science communication often relies heavily on visual elements such as charts, graphs, and complex diagrams. Writing effective alt text for these images requires careful consideration to convey the necessary information without overwhelming the reader. The Web Accessibility Initiative advises that “alt text should be concise yet descriptive, providing the function and purpose of the image” (WAI).
For instance, instead of writing “A watershed,” a more informative alt text would be “Tall trees with various kinds of leaves in springtime. They stand along a bubbling stream. The banks of the stream are mossy. It’s peaceful” or “Three people stand at a scientific poster inside a brightly lit hall. They’re smiling and engaging with each other.” This level of detail ensures that users who cannot see the image still receive the critical information it conveys.
Guidelines from Accessibility Experts
The Perkins School for the Blind recommends that when writing alt text for complex images, one should “focus on the essential information that the image conveys in the context of the content” (Perkins). They suggest prioritizing clarity and relevance to aid comprehension.
Similarly, the American Foundation for the Blind emphasizes the importance of context, noting that “the same image might require different alt text depending on its use” (AFB). This means that communicators should tailor their descriptions to the specific content and audience.
Benefits Beyond Accessibility
Including alt text has advantages beyond aiding those with visual impairments. Search engines index alt text, which can improve the searchability of content. Additionally, in situations where images fail to load due to connectivity issues, alt text ensures the message is still conveyed.
The National Center for Accessible Media notes that “alt text enhances the usability of content for all users” (NCAM).
Implementing Alt Text on Bluesky
On Bluesky, users must add alt text when uploading images. Trying to post an image without alt text prompts an error from the platform. This is unlike any other platform and demonstrates Bluesky’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and accessible social platform.
The Ethical Imperative of Inclusive Communication
Inclusive science communication is not merely a legal or regulatory requirement; it is an ethical imperative. Accessibility ensures that all people can participate fully in society, including accessing and contributing to scientific knowledge. Embracing these tools acknowledges a commitment to sharing knowledge equitably.
Alt text is a powerful yet simple tool that can make science communication more inclusive and effective. Platforms like Bluesky are leading the way in integrating accessibility into ways scientists engage with their audiences.
Sources Cited
- American Foundation for the Blind (AFB). “Alt Text Guidelines.”
- National Center for Accessible Media (NCAM). “Effective Alternative Text.”
- Perkins School for the Blind. “Guidelines for Writing Image Descriptions.”
- Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI). “Images Concepts.”
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2019). “World Report on Vision.”
- Bluesky Social. “Accessibility Features on Bluesky.”
- World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). “Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1.”
- United Nations. “Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”
- Center for Accessible Technology (CAT). “Best Practices for Accessible Social Media.”
- Inclusive Design Research Centre (IDRC). “Inclusive Design in Digital Media.”