Uma imagem vale mil palavras: representando listas de páginas da web usando imagens para pessoas com deficiências de aprendizagem

The use of images, symbols and other pictorial representation in websites is both common practice and urged in the literature on web design, particularly with regard to people with learning disabilities. However, there is a paucity of literature on the efficacy of using images in this way, and on what might be the most effective pictorial representation of various topics related to ‘transition’ – the change from the protective environment of school to the adult world of supported employment and more independent living. The aim of the study was to determine which were the most effective depictions of transition-related topics – such as leisure, health and education - with regard to three types of photographic and artistic representation – photos, icons and Widgits. The study was undertaken in two stages. A qualitative stage explored the meanings given to various photos and icons, selected from appropriate websites and literature. Stage two consisted of an online exercise, in which participants are presented with various photos or other representations and select which category the belong to (health, work etc.) Results suggested that, whilst intuitively sensible, the use of pictorial representation may not actually aid understanding of content, because of the difficulties inherent in attempting to encapsulate concepts within a single representation. More concrete topics such as Friends, are easier to represent pictorially than concepts such as Support or Safety. The most effective representations were photographic, with Widgits being the least effective. A strong case could be made from these results for audio rendition of labels.