[SEC508] "New" use of title attribite for a link

[LGHull@aol.com]

I'm well aware of the use of the "title" attribute in the <a> tag to include a meaningful description as in the following example.

<a title="this link starts myFunction" href="javascript:myFunction();"><img src="javascript:void(0);"></a>

As this tag is supported by some but not all assistive technologies, the Access Board has recommended authors also use the "alt" attribute in the enclosed image.

Now I'm starting to see instances where the title attribute is used with the repetitive appearance of the same text, not an image, used as a link as in the following example.

<a title="text description or name of a site" href="go_to_some_page"> + view site </a>

In short, the differing title attribute text is all that distinguishes several of these "view site" links.

Admittedly there is text associated with these repetitious text links that also provides the name and/or a description of the site.

However, to me this is just the old "click here" problem with the addition of a title attribute.

It works if (1) the assistive technology supports title, perhaps as an option, and (2) the option to read title is turned on.

Has the Access Board considered this usage?

Should this usage be considered Section 508 compliant?

Regards,

Larry Hull