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Preamble:

The Accessible AI Quotient (AAIQ) framework is a set of technical guidelines, rules, and protocols designed to ensure AI technologies are universally accessible and inclusive. This framework provides precise standards to integrate accessibility into AI systems. Established by Tiffani Martin and Jason Caston, this framework aims to provide professionals with the resources they need to create accessible AI applications from subject matter experts who reflect the diversity that is encouraged in STEM at large.

Principles of Accessible AI:

1. Inclusivity: Design AI systems to serve the diverse needs of all users, including those with disabilities.
2. Transparency: Ensure AI operations and decision-making processes are clear and understandable.
3. Ethical Data Use: Handle user data with care, ensuring privacy and ethical use.
4. User-Centered Design: Prioritize the dignity, rights, and welfare of users, with continuous incorporation of user feedback.
5. Agility in Accessibility: Integrate accessibility into every phase of the agile development process.
6. Continuous Improvement: Regularly update AI systems based on technological advancements and user feedback.

Guidelines for Accessible AI Development:

Inclusivity in AI Design:

– Engage diverse stakeholders throughout AI development.
– Implement built-in accessibility features catering to a wide range of abilities.

Accessibility Testing:

– Conduct regular testing with diverse groups, including those with visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments.
– Use standardized methods for evaluating AI accessibility, including automated tools and human-centered testing.

User-Centered Feedback:

– Implement feedback mechanisms for users to report accessibility issues and suggest improvements.
– Continuously refine AI systems based on user feedback.

Rules for Compliance and Ethical AI:

– Ensure AI products adhere to national and international accessibility laws, as well as the most recent version of the WCAE as a base.
– Enforce strict rules on the ethical use of data, respecting the privacy of persons.
– Implement end-to-end encryption and secure data storage practices.
– Provide clear documentation of AI model operations, including decision-making processes.
– Ensure users can understand AI decisions.

Protocols for Development, Evaluation, and Maintenance:

Development Protocol:

– Integrate accessibility from the start of AI development.
– Train development teams on the importance of accessibility.

Evaluation Protocol:

– Use standardized methods for evaluating AI accessibility, including automated tools and human-centered testing.
– Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with data governance policies.

Update and Maintenance Protocol:

– Regularly update AI systems to improve accessibility based on technological advancements and user feedback.
– Ensure successful recovery from simulated attacks without loss of data or service disruption.

Rating System for Compliance and Criteria:

1. Epsilon (Ε) – Low:
– Minimal or no adherence to the AAIQ framework.
– Significant gaps in integrating accessibility features.
– Lack of compliance with accessibility laws.
– Poor data privacy practices and lack of transparency.
– Inadequate testing and evaluation for accessibility.
– No regular updates or maintenance to address accessibility issues.
– Limited or no engagement with diverse stakeholders.
– Engagement: Less than 20%

2. Delta (Δ) – Below Average:
– Partial compliance with the AAIQ framework.
– Some accessibility features implemented, but with noticeable deficiencies.
– Inconsistent adherence to accessibility laws.
– Basic data privacy measures in place, but lacking in robustness.
– Occasional testing and evaluation for accessibility, but not comprehensive.
– Irregular updates and maintenance to address accessibility issues.
– Some engagement with diverse stakeholders, but not throughout all development phases.
– Engagement: 20-39%

3. Gamma (Γ) – Average:
– Satisfactory compliance with the AAIQ framework.
– Standard accessibility features implemented.
– Consistent adherence to accessibility laws.
– Adequate data privacy measures in place.
– Regular testing and evaluation for accessibility.
– Regular updates and maintenance to address accessibility issues.
– Engagement with diverse stakeholders throughout most development phases.
– Engagement: 40-59%

4. Beta (Β) – Above Average:
– Exceeds average expectations in compliance with the AAIQ framework.
– Comprehensive and effective accessibility features implemented.
– Strong adherence to accessibility laws.
– Robust data privacy and ethical practices in place.
– Thorough and frequent testing and evaluation for accessibility.
– Proactive updates and maintenance to continuously improve accessibility.
– Active engagement with diverse stakeholders throughout all development phases.
– Engagement: 60-79%

5. Alpha (Α) – High:
– Full compliance with the AAIQ framework with excellent performance.
– Exceptional accessibility features that cater to all user needs.
– Exemplary adherence to accessibility laws.
– Outstanding data privacy and ethical practices.
– Comprehensive, continuous testing and evaluation for accessibility.
– Regular, proactive updates and maintenance for optimal accessibility.
– Deep and continuous engagement with diverse stakeholders throughout all development phases, ensuring their needs are fully met.
– Engagement: 80-100%

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