This module will focus on the meaning and purpose of focus tracking and show you how to test for it throughout an application.
The Section 508 requirement covering this is: §1194.21 (c) A well-defined on-screen indication of the current focus shall be provided that moves among interactive interface elements as the input focus changes. The focus shall be programmatically exposed so that assistive technology can track focus and focus changes.
In a graphical user interface, focus is the location where user action will take place. A visual indication of the current focus usually consists of some type of cursor or highlighted control that the user can activate with a keyboard, mouse or other input device. Providing a visual indication of the focus allows users to recognize where user interaction is possible and to move through an application efficiently.
The focus is programmatically exposed if the application makes it available to the operating system (OS) so that assistive technologies (ATs) can identify it. Various types of ATs, including Braille displays, large-print and screen reading software, require a programmatically exposed focus; and AT users with mobility and visual disabilities may rely heavily on the AT's ability to track and control the focus. Screen readers begin to speak content from the point of focus.
Remember, both testers and developers can use the checkpoints for this requirement to be sure the products they are working with will be accessible to users with disabilities, including those using assistive technology (AT).
Use the link above to look at the checkpoints now. You may wish to keep the window open as a reference to use as you complete this module.
Video Overview of this Requirement
To view a six-minute video with additional information that may be helpful to testers and developers, select the video link below. The video will open in a new window; if you are using a screen reader to take this training, press Enter when you hear, "To start, press Play button."
The second video, of approximately one and a half minutes, includes examples created for developers working in the VA's Delphi environment; they do have general applicability to testing and developing other software applications. The video will open in a new window; if you are using a screen reader to take this training, press Enter when you hear, "To start, press Play button."
Select Next for an example.