Designing Audio Subtitles for Television Programs with Audio Description for People with Visual Impairment

Abstract

        The research “Designing Audio Subtitles for Television Programs with Audio Description for People with Visual Impairment” aims to explore approaches in designing audio subtitles for individuals with visual impairment. Data was collected from 9 participants with visual impairment through self-rated comprehension and satisfaction scores after viewing 6 video clips, interviews and focus group discussions.

        The analysis framework covers four dimensions: visual impairment considerations, production techniques, media effects, and equitable access to media. The theoretical framework incorporates concepts related to visual impairment, equity, McLuhan and McLuhan's concept of Tetrad, and international guidelines for audio subtitle production.

        The findings reveal that the design and production of audio subtitles necessitate considerations beyond mere technical aspects, as audio subtitles are interconnected with the dimension of visual impairment, the dimension of the effects of media usage, and the dimension of equitable access to media. The research proposes two approaches to designing audio subtitles as follows.

        The first approach is based on Universal Design principles, recommending that the production of audio subtitles from the outset is crucial for all programs, but if resources are limited, priority should be given to essential programs (e.g., programs with substantial foreign language content, shows where hosts do not provide Thai summaries of foreign content). For emotionally expressive programs, dubbing techniques should be employed, while for complex programs, the number of voices should correspond to the number of characters. Audio subtitles should be designed to synchronize as closely as possible with the original content and the volume should be higher than the original program audio.

        The second approach is a personalized response approach, empowers users by providing choices and flexibility, aligning with the concept of inclusive design. This approach suggests offering options in audio subtitle formats, synthetic voice selection, access channels, integration with audio description, real-time viewing, online and offline access, up-to-date programming, and user-adjustable volume controls for both audio subtitles and original program audio.