A glossary of terms relevant to disability, accessibility and technology

A term that describes how individuals with disabilities prefer to refer to themselves. Those who see their disability as an important part of their self-identity may prefer to use language that refers to their disability, such as “a blind person.” Only refer to someone this way if you know that’s their preference. Otherwise, use person-first language.

Picture or graphic on a web page in which hyperlinks are embedded.

An environment and commitment to support, represent and embrace diverse social groups and identities; an environment where all people feel they belong.

Any method by which information is entered into a computer.

A disability characterized by limitations in a person’s ability to learn at an expected level. A person with an intellectual disability may process information more slowly and have difficulty with abstract concepts and everyday behaviours and activities. Often referred to as a cognitive disability.

Computer network connecting government, education, commercial, other organization and individual computer systems.

Professional person who assists a deaf person in communicating with hearing people.

A disability that is not immediately apparent; sometimes called a hidden disability.