AI-Driven Text Simplification: Improving Web Accessibility for Cognitive Challenges
2025 (English)Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE credits
Student thesis
Sustainable development
Sustainable Development
Abstract [en]
Many people find it hard to read complex online texts, especially those with ADHD, dyslexia, memory difficulties, or who are learning a new language. This study looks at how AI can help make digital content easier to read. A prototype was developed that uses Puppeteer to extract website content and LLaMA 3.2 to simplify the text based on Easy-to-Read (E2R) guidelines. An online survey with 54 general readers and a usability test with nine participants who have reading challenges were conducted. Results showed that most people preferred the simplified version. In the online survey, 69% chose the AI version, and it was read about 33 seconds faster. In the usability test, reading time dropped by over 82%, and all participants answered the questions correctly. Many found the simplified version easier to read and understand, though some felt it missed details or sounded too casual. The findings suggest AI can support accessibility by reducing cognitive load, but the tone still matters. The study highlights both the benefits and limitations of using AI for real-time text simplification on websites.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2025. , p. 89
Keywords [en]
AI, text simplification, accessibility, cognitive challenges, usability testing, readability, Easy-to-Read, LLM
National Category
Engineering and Technology
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-68578OAI: oai:DiVA.org:hj-68578DiVA, id: diva2:1970401
Subject / course
JTH, Informatics
Supervisors
Examiners
2025-06-172025-06-162025-10-13Bibliographically approved