Background

The goal of the Interactive Technology Usability and Accessibility Lab (Usability Lab) at Shepherd Center is to test consumer technologies for usability by people with disabilities to promote equal access to these critical technologies. These technologies include, but are not limited to, computers, cellphones, tablets, apps, smart watches and trackers, smart home devices, games, etc. We also seek to understand how people with physical, sensory, cognitive and psychological disabilities use consumer technology, their technology needs and challenges, devices and applications, and the role of technology in their lives.

Purpose

To support these goals, we have created the Accessibility User Research Collective (AURC), a national network of people with all types of disabilities who are interested in participating in accessibility and usability testing of technology products that are on the market or are in development. The AURC is operated by researchers at the Shepherd Center and is funded in part by Microsoft Corporation. Most research projects will focus on the accessibility of Microsoft products (Windows operating system, Word, Excel, Xbox, Outlook, etc.) or will be more general studies of the technology needs of people with disabilities.

Duration and Scope

This research involves completing an initial questionnaire to join the Accessibility User Research Collective (AURC). This questionnaire takes 15-30 minutes to complete. Once you have joined the AURC, you may be invited to participate in individual research and testing projects. These projects typically last 1-3 hours. Sometimes a project will involve multiple sessions of the same duration: 1-3 hours.

Procedures

Joining the AURC does not guarantee when or if you will be asked to participate in other studies, but it is necessary to be able to participate in those other studies. You may refuse to participate in any study. The types of research projects include: Technology testing or interviews - You will be shown a piece of technology and asked to use it; or you will be asked simply to answer questions about your views or experiences using specific technology. We will observe how you use the technology, or ask you about your use of the technology, and we will make notes. Then we will ask you questions about your experience. Focus groups – You will be asked to share your experiences and preferences using technology or experiences living with your disability in a small-group discussion. Survey questionnaires – You will be asked questions about your use, preferences, and experiences using technology, and/or your experiences living with your disability.

Risks

The risks involved are no greater than those involved in daily activities such as using a phone or computer. We will be asking questions about you and your disability. Right of Investigator to Withdraw-The investigator has the right to withdraw any participant from the study at any time. In all cases, there will be no penalty to you.

Benefits

Your participation will provide important information to researchers and engineers working on technology designed for people like yourself. Alternatives-The only alternative is not to be in the study. Your participation is purely voluntary.

Confidentiality

The data collected about you will be kept private to the extent allowed by law. To protect your privacy, your records will be kept under a code number or fake name rather than by real name. Your records will be kept in locked files and only study staff will be allowed to look at them. Your name and any other fact that might point to you will not appear when results of this study are presented or published.

Cost

There is no cost to participate in this study other than your time and in some cases travel.

Compensation

You will receive a stipend based on the type and duration of the research study you are selected to participate in. This generally will be about $50 per hour.

Voluntary Participation/Withdrawal

Your participation in this study is voluntary. You do not have to be in this study if you don't want to be. You have the right to change your mind and leave the study at any time without giving any reason, and without penalty. Any new information that may make you change your mind about being in this study will be given to you.

Source of Funding

This research is funded by Microsoft Corporation in partnership with Shepherd Center.

Questions about Your Rights

If you have any questions about your rights as a patient in this network or individual projects, please contact Ismari Clesson, Acting Vice Chair, Shepherd Research Review Committee, 2020 Peachtree Road NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30309, (404) 350-7651.

May I withdraw or cancel my permission to be in this network?

You may withdraw from this study and cancel your permission at any time without giving any reason and without penalty.

May I review or copy the information obtained from me or created about me?

Yes. You may review or copy all information obtained from you or created about you. Please contact: John Morris, 404-367-1348, john_morris@shepherd.org.

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