Page 191 - Emerging Trends and Innovations in Web-Based Applications and Technologies

International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (IJTSRD) @ www.ijtsrd.com eISSN: 2456-6470
users in a society that increasingly relies on digital media for caregivers or family members for news and information
communication, engagement, and decision-making. can be a significant barrier to self-sufficiency. By
providing a platform that allows for independent access
4.1. Expanding Accessibility
to information, VISIONary News reduces this reliance.
VISIONary News takes accessibility beyond traditional
This empowerment boosts confidence, as users are no
methods by transforming complex textual information—
longer dependent on others for vital updates and can
such as news articles, opinion pieces, and analysis—into
engage more fully in social, political, and personal
interactive audio content. This adaptive approach is
spheres.
particularly significant for users with visual impairments, as
it makes written news and information more universally 4.3. Enhancing Civic and Social Participation
accessible. However, the platform goes further by In a world where digital media serves as a central vehicle for
accommodating a broad spectrum of additional accessibility information dissemination and social interaction, VISIONary
needs, including those of individuals with hearing News plays a crucial role in ensuring that visually impaired
impairments or cognitive challenges. individuals are not excluded from important conversations
and civic activities. The platform serves as a bridge to a more
 Cognitive and Hearing Accessibility: For users with inclusive society by facilitating informed decision-making
cognitive disabilities, the ability to adjust the speed of
and encouraging active participation in social, political, and
playback, request summaries, and ask for clarification
community affairs.
enhances the comprehensibility of content, ensuring that
it is not only accessible but also digestible. These  Informed Decision-Making: Access to timely, accurate,
adaptive features enable users to engage with news and comprehensive news is essential for making
content in a way that aligns with their cognitive informed decisions. VISIONary News ensures that
processing abilities. visually impaired individuals have equal access to news
and updates on key topics such as local governance,
 Multi-Modal Accessibility: For individuals with hearing national policies, elections, and social justice
impairments, VISIONary News can offer an alternative in movements. By keeping users up-to-date with the latest
the form of subtitled or captioned audio, alongside developments, the platform helps them stay informed
vibrational or tactile feedback via wearable devices. This and make decisions that reflect their values and
multi-sensory integration ensures that the platform priorities.
reaches users with varying sensory needs, removing
barriers and creating a more inclusive environment.  Active Participation in Democracy: Participation in
democratic processes such as voting, town hall
discussions, and political debates is fundamental to
ensuring a robust, representative society. VISIONary
News facilitates this participation by making sure that
visually impaired individuals are not left behind in civic
discussions. Whether it’s voting on policies, engaging in
debates, or simply discussing current events with peers,
the platform ensures that visually impaired users can
contribute meaningfully to these important societal
functions.

4.2. Promoting Autonomy
One of the most profound impacts of VISIONary News lies in
its capacity to promote autonomy among visually impaired
users. Traditional media and news outlets often require
external assistance to navigate and engage with, but
VISIONary News empowers individuals by providing them
the tools to independently consume, interact with, and
navigate content without the need for constant support.
 Self-Reliance in Daily Activities: The platform’s
interactive features allow users to independently
browse articles, choose preferred content, and manage 5. Challenges and Limitations
their playback experience. These functions promote 5.1. Technological Barriers
independence in accessing information, which is critical Interactive audio technologies, especially those leveraging
for daily tasks that may otherwise require external help. Natural Language Processing (NLP), face a variety of
For example, users can independently stay informed technological challenges that can hinder their effectiveness,
about current events, make decisions based on the latest particularly for users with diverse linguistic backgrounds or
news, and engage in conversations with family and peers speech impairments. NLP, which is central to these systems,
about current issues—all without relying on others for is still evolving and can struggle with a number of
access. complexities:

 Reduced Dependence on Caregivers: For individuals  Accents and Dialects: NLP systems, while improving,
with significant visual impairments, dependence on often struggle to accurately interpret speech from users

IJTSRD | Special Issue on Emerging Trends and Innovations in Web-Based Applications and Technologies Page 181