Innovative Research on Enhancing Chart Accessibility for Low-Vision Users Based on Cursor Visual Context

This article addresses the barriers faced by low-vision users when accessing data charts, proposing an interaction design method based on cursor visual context. By combining techniques such as Mini-map, Focus+Context, and Overview+Details, it significantly improves the experience of low-vision users in understanding and operating charts. The study aims to fill the gap in existing accessibility solutions for the needs of low-vision users, and has important academic and social value.

Data charts are widely used in various fields, but low-vision users (those with impaired vision even after correction, over 250 million globally) face many challenges: difficulty identifying small labels, inability to view the whole and details simultaneously, and easy disorientation when zooming in. Existing screen readers are designed for fully blind users, while low-vision users rely on vision and need specially designed solutions.

The core idea is to present auxiliary information near the cursor to reduce cognitive load. Based on observations: low-vision users rely on zoom functions, but after zooming, they easily lose overall awareness. By dynamically providing context near the cursor, it helps them understand the relationship between the local and the whole.

Mini-map: Global Positioning Guide

A thumbnail displays the entire chart, highlighting the current view position, solving the tunnel vision problem when zooming, and improving spatial positioning efficiency.

Focus+Context: Smooth Visual Transition

Local zoom centered on the cursor, maintaining peripheral visibility (e.g., fisheye distortion), balancing detail and peripheral perception.

Overview+Details: Split-Screen Architecture

Split-screen display of overall overview and local details, linked via visual cues, suitable for tasks involving switching between the whole and specific data.

22 low-vision participants (including those with macular degeneration and other causes) were recruited, and a mixed-method evaluation was used: Quantitative indicators: Task completion time, answer accuracy rate, number of navigation steps; Qualitative evaluation: SUS usability scale, NASA-TLX cognitive load, semi-structured interviews.

Usability Improvement

Task completion time was reduced by 35%, accuracy increased by 28%, and disorientation cases decreased by 62%.

Technology Preferences

• Mini-map is suitable for long-distance navigation;
• Focus+Context is suitable for local and peripheral switching (some users need to adapt to distortion);
• Overview+Details is suitable for complex chart analysis.

Design Principles

1. Proactively present context;
2. Multimodal redundancy;
3. User-controlled customization;
4. Progressive disclosure.

Application Scenarios

• Business intelligence to assist low-vision employees in data analysis;
• Education to support accessible data literacy;
• Public information to improve the inclusiveness of statistical charts.

Future Directions

Personalized adaptation, multi-device compatibility, collaborative scenario support, AI-assisted enhancement.

This study provides practical solutions for accessibility design, emphasizing that technology should benefit everyone. With population aging and the growth of the low-vision population, this research has important social significance. We look forward to more attention to jointly build an inclusive digital world.