Accessible Presentation Techniques

As a presenter, you have the opportunity to share information to a wide range of audiences. There's certain techniques you can employ during the presentation process in person or online, to ensure your presentation is accessible to as many participants as possible. Using the concept of Universal Design along with suggestions from the University of Washington's "Making Your Conference Talk Accessible," we have created a short list of items to consider: 

Presentation (In person or Online)

  • Use a microphone. Don't assume you can easily be heard
  • Provide instructions on how participants can ask questions
    • If participants ask questions and they don't have access to speak over a microphone, repeat the question.
    • For online presentations, it is recommended to allow flexibility in the ways participants can interact and repeat what is being asked or shared.
  • Describe charts, graphs, graphics/animations. Don't assume individuals can read or see what is presented on the slide.
  • Make sure your font is large enough and easy to read (Suggestion: 30-point font and use clear, san serif, fonts such as Arial, Verdana, etc.)
  • Ensure good color contrast for easy viewing.
  • If using a laserpointer or your mouse to highlight items, describe the item you are highlighting. 
  • If you are explaining how to navigate or access a website be as descriptive as possible by stating the labels of sections or buttons and links. Don't assume all participants will navigate the same way you do. Replace terms such as "Click on" with "Select," and "Scroll down" with "Navigate to [describe area]."  
  • Videos shown should have captions if they have audio. If there is no audio with the video, the presenter should describe what is being shown.

Materials (In Person or Online)

Space (In Person)

  • Consider physical layout of the room and ensure the space is accessible for wheelchair users and other accommodations.
  • If your presentation contains activities: think about accessibility of the activity. Would someone with low vision, limited mobility or hearing loss be able to participate? If your audience is unknown, plan ahead with contingencies.
  • Let your audience know the approximate length of a presentation and if appropriate, the opportunity to stand or move about the room, being mindful of others.

 Space (Online)

  • Let audience/participants know the  approximate length of the presentation.
  • Remind them of the opportunity to have their camera off/on or move about their own space if needed. 
  • Announce the preferred time and method of submitting questions or anticipated interaction.

Additional Resources:

 

Disability Resources (DRC) is YOUR resource for ensuring accessible content!

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