Cognitive Accessibility

Term from Accessibility Consulting industry explained for recruiters

Cognitive Accessibility refers to making digital content and technology easier to understand and use for people with different thinking and learning abilities. This includes helping people with memory issues, attention challenges, or learning differences. It's like creating a clear, simple path for everyone to access information, regardless of how their brain processes things. When companies talk about this, they usually mean designing websites, apps, and documents so they're easier to understand, navigate, and use by everyone, including people with cognitive disabilities.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented Cognitive Accessibility guidelines in company-wide digital content strategy

Led Cognitive Accessibility audits for major retail client websites

Developed employee training materials focusing on Cognitive Accessibility best practices

Created Cognitive Access solutions for educational technology platforms

Typical job title: "Accessibility Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Accessibility Consultant Digital Accessibility Specialist UX Accessibility Designer Cognitive Accessibility Expert Accessibility Analyst Universal Design Specialist Digital Inclusion Consultant

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement a cognitive accessibility strategy for a large organization?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating organization-wide guidelines, training programs, assessment tools, and ways to measure success. Should mention working with different departments and getting buy-in from leadership.

Q: How do you balance cognitive accessibility needs with other business requirements?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to prioritize accessibility while considering business goals, demonstrate experience in showing ROI of accessibility improvements, and discuss practical compromises when needed.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key elements you look for when reviewing a website for cognitive accessibility?

Expected Answer: Should mention clear navigation, simple language, consistent layouts, proper headings, and adequate time to complete tasks. Should be able to explain why each element matters.

Q: How do you test for cognitive accessibility issues?

Expected Answer: Should describe different testing methods, including user testing with diverse groups, using accessibility tools, and following established guidelines. Should mention documentation and reporting processes.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are some common cognitive accessibility barriers in digital content?

Expected Answer: Should identify basic issues like complex language, cluttered layouts, lack of clear instructions, and time pressures. Should show understanding of why these are problems.

Q: How would you make a form more cognitively accessible?

Expected Answer: Should discuss using clear labels, providing examples, breaking into smaller steps, and giving clear error messages. Should focus on making things easier to understand and complete.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of accessibility guidelines
  • Simple content clarity improvements
  • Basic accessibility testing
  • Understanding of different cognitive needs

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Detailed accessibility assessments
  • Implementation of accessibility solutions
  • User testing coordination
  • Training development and delivery

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic accessibility planning
  • Program development and management
  • Stakeholder communication
  • Advanced consulting and advisory

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic accessibility guidelines
  • Lack of empathy or understanding of diverse user needs
  • No experience with accessibility testing tools
  • Unable to explain concepts in simple terms
  • No awareness of legal accessibility requirements