Initial survey of reality modelling language access issues (Draft 1b)

There is great interest in the Augmentative Technology (AT) community forthe potential benefits that virtual reality may offer [i]. There have been several instances in which a customized solution has beendeveloped successfully to meet a specific use[ii]. Currentlythere is a emerging standard for a networked virtual environment named VirtualReality Modeling Language (VRML). The focus of this paper is to explore the possible access issues of thisemerging standard. I will demonstrate the access issues which cannot be met byexisting access technology. Further, I will explicate the fundamental reasonswhy this technology could not simply be modified for this new environment.Several potential access solutions will be discussed, as well as theirshortcomings and general inappropriateness. Strongly required is a conceptualframework from which new access technology can be derived, and for presentationto researchers outside the AT community for comprehending the needs of personswith disabilities. Following, I will briefly outline conceptual problems withthe general approach to virtual environments for persons with disabilities. Finally, I will propose a course of action that is congruent with the proposedframework for meeting the new challenges