Designing accessible software for the electronic abacus

This paper describes software developed for the electronic abacus, a tool designed to provide an alternative method of calculation to the talking electronic calculator and enhance understanding of number concepts. The software is intended to be accessible to people with a range of different visual impairments, whilst also usable by sighted teachers, parents and peers. Accessible software guidelines and the design for all concept are discussed, leading into a statement of the design principles. A full description of the software emphasises its accessible features, followed by an assessment of the fulfilment of requirements, reports from early user-testing and recommendations for upgrades and improvements.