A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
compliance : beyond compliance : : inclusion : belonging
A Guide to Planning Inclusive Events,
Seminars, and Activities at
Syracuse University
Originally compiled by Alex Umstead and Diane Wiener (2012)
Current revision by Kate Pollack and Diane Wiener (2018)
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
INTRODUCTION
As universities become increasingly diverse, it is important for individuals and groups planning events to
consider how they can make their events accessible and engaging to a broad audience. This audience
includes people with a wide array of backgrounds and social identities, includes those based upon race,
ethnicity, language, country of origin, religion, political affiliation, gender, sexual orientation, ability,
class, age, etc. In order to plan events that are inclusive of the growing diversity of students in higher
education, it is necessary to go beyond simply accommodating or acknowledging people's differences,
and instead, to create events that are universally designedaccessible to everyone.
Proponents of Universal Design for Instruction (UDI) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) take as a
premise the idea that all learning environments can be designed in advance, and in ongoing ways, to
reflect the greatest possible array of students' and other participants’ needs, preferences, and learning
styles. Doing so is not just about meeting the needs of students (and others) with and without
disabilities; doing so demonstrates greater inclusion of all individuals and groups. Universal Design may
not be fully achievable, arguably, but is, nevertheless, an attitude or approach that is helpful to adopt.
For more information, please review Appendix D of this document, as well as the video
"UDL at a
Glance" (CAST, 2012).
This guide is intended to expand upon
an earlier accessibility guide created by the Beyond Compliance
Coordinating Committee (BCCC, 2009). While the BCCC’s guide addresses accessibility for people with
disabilities, the current guide incorporates this discussion and broadens it, to consider a wider array of
audiences.
If you have any questions or suggestions pertaining to this guide, please email us
.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Before, During, and After an Event
Arrangements to make BEFORE the event
Scheduling and Collaborations, Registration and Accommodations Requests, Flyers and
Advertising, Social Networking Sites and Email, Physical Access, and Reminders
ASL Interpretation and CART
Films, Slideshows, and Other Digital Materials
Logistical Issues: Interpersonal Interaction, Lighting and Sound, and Food
Arrangements to make DURING the event
When Presenting in Front of an Audience
Event Photography or Filming
Arrangements to make AFTER the event
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
Other Things to Think About
References
Appendix A: Helpful Resources
American Sign Language Interpreting Services
A/V Providers Associated with CART Provision
CART (Communication Access Real-time Translation) Providers
Non-CART Transcription and Other Accessibility Services
Video Production
Syracuse University
Helpful Links
Appendix B: Example of an Event/Seminar Introduction
Appendix C: Other Useful Accessibility Guides and Resources
Appendix D: Universal Design Guide and Resources
Appendix E: Video Captioning and Audio Description Resources
Appendix F: Creating Accessible Content
BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER AN EVENT
Arrangements to make BEFORE the event
SCHEDULING AND COLLABORATIONS, REGISTRATION AND ACCOMMODATIONS REQUESTS, FLYERS
AND ADVERTISING, SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES AND EMAIL, PHYSICAL ACCESS, AND REMINDERS
Scheduling and Collaborations
1. Avoid scheduling events during major religious holidays and festivals, and be mindful of the
global community (check the SU calendar and the DSA Calendar to determine potential conflicts)
2. Consider connecting with other offices and integrating into existing events and programs to
maximize attendance
3. Add your event to the DSA Calendar, and also populate to SU Calendar if open to campus
community
4. Be mindful of Christian privilege, when present, and other forms of privilege. (Please refer to:
Seifert, 2007)
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
Registration and Accommodation Requests
1. Include language about how and by when to request accommodations, materials or
interpretation in a language other than English (e.g., if an individual uses English as a second
language), and dietary modifications, and include:
a. Contact person with phone number and/or email address
b. Clear deadline by which to make requests known
Example: To request accommodations, contact Al Smith by March 21 at asmith@syr.edu
2. Consider scholarships or financial assistance for participants. One or more people may need
financial assistance to attend your event, if there is a charge. Part of being inclusive is
considering different financial needs.
3. When designing registration forms, make sure that your forms are accessible, and be cognizant
of the different needs people may have. See Appendix F
for more information on creating
accessible documents.
4. Collaborate with your website managers to ensure accessibility. Check the accessibility of your
registration website (if using an online registration system), by using the
WAVE Web
Accessibility Evaluation Tool. For questions about this tool, visit WAVE Help.
5. Provide multiple ways for attendees to communicate with you (e.g., phone, email, social media,
and text), BEFORE the event, in order to assist them in obtaining the optimum accommodations
possible. Cornell University's accessible events guide
notes that "[a]ttendees who require
communication access often cannot use the telephone and are able to convey their needs more
effectively by email" (n.d.) It would be helpful to check in, on an ongoing basis, with whomever
manages your website.
Flyers and Advertising
1. Include information about accommodations, including provisions such as American Sign
Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Real-time Translation (CART).
2. Flyers and other materials should include specific informational notes about access and
accommodations, at the bottom, or otherwise be displayed clearly, as follows:
American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Real-time
Translation (CART) will be provided. [if both of these services are to be provided]
If you require accommodations, use English as a second language, or have dietary
needs, please email: (insert contact person, email address, and phone number) by
(insert date, preferably at least a week before the event). [as relevant]
3. Flyers, if distributed electronically, should be screen-reader compatible, with an accompanying
text-only version (that includes the same text as that which appears on the flyer) in the body of
any email sent out. There is no need to provide a separate, text-only file, if the text is “in the
body” of the email shared.
a. Please see Appendix F of this document
for information on creating accessible documents.
b. Make sure to include information about accessible entrances and parking on your flyer, and
provide information for a contact person who can assist with reserving parking. More
information follows.
c. Multiple guides are also available online to help with creating and working with accessible
PDFs. Below are two examples:
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
i. Syracuse University ITS Answers page on creating accessible PDFs:
https://answers.syr.edu/display/itsservapp011/Create+Accessible+Content#CreateAcce
ssibleContent-AdobeAcrobatPDF
ii. WebAIM: Web Accessibility in Mind
d. Once you have created your PDF, open the document in Adobe. You can use Adobe’s “Read
Out Loud” features to check accessibility, using keyboard commands (Note: When using a
Mac, replace “Ctrl,” below, with “Command” key):
Activate/Deactivate Read Out Loud Shift+Ctrl+Y
Read this page only Shift+Ctrl+V
Read to End of Document Shift+Ctrl+B
Pause/Resume Shift+Ctrl+C
Stop Shift+Ctrl+E
e. Further information on creating accessible PDF flyers is available in
Appendix F of this
document.
f. Ideally, prior to circulation, PDF documents should be re-checked for screen-reader
“friendliness” (by experts in PDF creation and/or by individuals who use screen readers on a
regular basis).
In terms of event planning and advertising, disability simulations (e.g., having someone who does not
normally use a wheelchair ride in one and try to navigate around a space, or having a sighted person
wear a blindfold in order to experience being blind) are often not a good idea.
If you are inviting community members to your event, make sure to have information available from
Parking Services, by checking with them, in advance of the event. Be prepared to give all visitors
information about parking, and indicate accommodation request information and parking options on
your advertising materials.
Example: Parking is complimentary. The Booth Garage and the Marion Lot will be available on a first
come, first serve basis. The Q5 Lot has been designated for accessible parking. For any questions
pertaining to parking, please contact Charlie Brown at snoopy@syr.edu. A Campus Parking Map is
available online at: https://goo.gl/7wA7ra.
Accessible, Anonymous Interface for Audience Questions and Comments
It is possible that, due to the sensitive nature of the topic at an event, or for other reasons, audience
members may want to comment or ask a question, but may wish to remain anonymous. In order to
underscore accessibility, in this respect, it is possible to create a Qualtrics
event survey that participants
can use to type questions or comments that could then be shared by someone using a mic during the
Q&A portion of an event. ASL interpreters and CART providers should be given this Qualtrics survey link
with the rest of the event information content, in advance of the event. Be sure to work with your IT
team to affirm that the Qualtrics survey is screen-reader friendly and otherwise fully accessible.
Qualtrics Event Survey Example: Your questions and comments will remain anonymous, unless you
identify yourself. Your questions and comments will be shared publicly during the event discussion
period. Thank you for your participation. [AFTER INCLUDING A COMMENT BOX]: Please share your
questions or comments, here.
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
Social Networking Sites and Email
Social networking sites, like Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/
), provide a powerful means
for reaching out to students, other individuals, and organizations about your event. When
posting an image to Facebook (which is inconsistent in the use of alt-text), it is important to
make sure that you provide a brief description of the image (if necessary for conveying the
meaning of the content of the image), and any text shown in the image.
While including images (JPGs, etc.) inline in emails can make them look nice, images are not
accessible to screen-reading software. If you include a JPG or similar image in your email, make
sure to include all of the text from the image in the body of the email. This also applies if you
send an email that has, for instance, a PDF flyer as an attachment (even if the flyer itself is
screen-reader accessible).
The following website includes tips for reducing email clutter: http://emailcharter.org/
Physical Access
Be clear about the physical accessibility of the event location, and consider related issues of inclusion:
Make location of accessible entrances, bathrooms, etc. clear on the signage at your event, and
in any materials you provide to attendees during the event or in advance of its occurrence.
Wheelchair accessibility consider routes, bathrooms, automatic doors (or make sure you
station somebody if the doors are manual or the button does not work), seating, signs, parking
According to "People First: How to Plan Events Everyone Can Attend" (New York State
Department of Health, 2008) "Choose facilities near accessible transit options. If the event is to
be held over several days, evaluate the accessibility of local restaurants, movie theaters, and
shopping malls that participants may want to visit.” (n. pag.)
Provide participants who will be attending multi-day events with lists of LGBTQ-friendly spaces,
vegetarian restaurants, with gluten-free options, etc., whenever possible.
Accessible seating: whenever possible, offer multiple types of seats with backs, considering
people’s variable needs regarding preferences and issues of comfort.
The
University of Arizona’s Disability Resource Center’s A Guide to Planning Accessible and Inclusive
Events gives a list of physical access-related considerations to keep in mind. Here are some of the
recommendations included (quoted or paraphrased directly from this resource):
Accessible parking and drop-off areas (indicated with signage containing the updated Disability
Access Symbol).
A paved and flat route to and from the main entrance, as well as any outdoor spaces (no gravel,
uneven surfaces, curbs, stairs).
An accessible primary entrance:
o Is is flat/level or ramped?
o Does it have either an accessible door or automatic door opener?
An accessible room layout, including wheelchair accessible seating so wheelchair-user can sit
with friends and participate in event activities. If the presentation area will be used for activities,
the route from the seating area should be accessible (clear, wide, no steps).
Space for 1-2 American Sign Language Interpreters (ASL) and/or CART (Communication Access
Real-time Translation) Captioners. Interpreters should be in front near speaker so deaf
individuals can have an unobstructed view of speaker and visuals.
Adequate space for service animals and/or wheelchair maneuverability, approximately 3-5 ft.
wide aisles/routes.
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
Accessible restrooms (indicated with signage). If none are in close proximity, provide a portable
accessible option.
Appropriate lighting for the space.
Only use the wheelchair logo if, in fact, the venue you are using is wheelchair accessible. The logo only
refers to wheelchair access and should not be used as a “generic” message that other accommodations
are available. Be intentional with the services provided and the symbols associated with them to ensure
clarity. Other disability access symbols are available at:
https://oae.stanford.edu/resources-
faqs/disability-access-symbols
Additional information:
Cornell University Student Disability Services Checklist for Planning Accessible Events
Reminders
People have distinct identities and experiences.
Language etiquette matters promoting belonging is not about being “P.C.,” but about respect
(for and toward diversity of the human experience, including but not limited to: race, ethnicity,
class, disability and disability identity, gender and gender expression, sexual orientation,
religion, place of origin, veteran’s status, size, age, political perspective, etc.)
o For more information on language use and disability, check out the SU Disability Cultural
Center Introductory Guide to Disability Language and Empowerment.
Although people are frequently interconnected, everyone is unique.
Generalizations are sometimes very unhelpful, and can in fact be quite hurtful.
ASL INTERPRETATION AND CART
ASL Interpretation
Arrange to have a professional ASL interpreter present for the duration of the event. When
initially requesting interpreting services, make the request far enough in advance for the
interpreting agency to arrange the service. As much time in advance as possible is best, but at
least one week should be given. Large events will likely need more lead time (two weeks ideal).
In Syracuse, fees for ASL interpreting services are generally $50 to $105 per hour, per
interpreter (with a two-hour minimum, per interpreter).
Contact one of the agencies already vetted by SU for ASL interpreting services, unless you have
access to a well-respected, preferably certified interpreter who can be hired, per diem, as many
interpreters can. For questions, contact the Disability Cultural Center, the Office of Disability
Services, or the office of the ADA/503/504 Coordinator (depending upon the nature of the event
or activity). Information on local ASL interpretation agencies is available in
Appendix A of this
document. Details regarding Syracuse University’s commitment to accessibility can be found on
the Accessible Syracuse website, which includes many resources.
o ASL interpreter service providers will typically require an event contact person (with a
phone number that is available at the time of the event).
o More than one sign language interpreter may be warranted, depending on the length of
the event, as well as the content being covered during the event. Communicate with
your chosen interpreting agency to determine the number of interpreters needed.
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
Sighted attendees utilizing ASL interpreting services should be able to see both the
interpreter(s) and speaker(s), simultaneously.
For certain events, such as performances (plays, concerts, etc.), it may be necessary to obtain
multiple interpreters who are familiar with interpreting these types of events.
Content of the presentation should be emailed or otherwise made available to ASL interpreters
in advance of the event (e.g., PowerPoint slides, speeches, song lyrics, names of presenters,
specialized terms spelled out).
Note: The amount of advanced time needed will depend upon the interpreting service’s
preferred procedures, as well as the content and nature of the event. Discuss timing
requirements with the interpreting agency’s contact person, when arranging for ASL
interpreting services, initially.
The Role of ASL Interpreters
While on the job, it is not standard for interpreters to introduce themselves. Some interpreters
may introduce themselves, anyway.
Be prepared to introduce ASL interpreters to the audience at the beginning of the event and
explain that the interpreters are there only to interpret and not as participants.
Deaf individuals may choose to introduce an interpreter or interpreters with whom they have
worked on a long-term, regular basis, or even just for the day or the specific event time.
CART (Communication Access Real-time Translation)
Note: Computer Aided Real-time Translation/Transcription and Communication Access Real-time
Translation are the same thing.
1. Arrange to have a professional (if possible, certified) CART provider to create a real-time
translation by being either physically present or offsite and connected via Skype or a phone line.
Information on CART providers is available in APPENDIX A
of this document.
2. Meeting audio and video needs for CART is complex, and requires specificity and expertise.
a. When planning events to be held at the Schine Student Center, the Goldstein Student
Center, and the Skybarn, A/V needs that are associated with the provision of CART are
handled by Student Centers and Programming Services (SCPS)
.
b. When planning events not to be held in the locations cited above, it is important to
notify SU Learning Environments and Media Production (LEMP
) at least two (2) weeks in
advance. Please visit LEMP's special events page for more information.
c. In the absence of LEMP’s availability please contact the approved providers listed in the
resources
guide.
3. The Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel & Conference Center has its own event planning
structures, including A/V costs for projectors, screens, etc.
4. IMPORTANT: Audio/video costs are separate from other CART costs. CART provision costs
between $95 and $140 per hour, depending upon provider and, in some cases, if CART is being
done remotely or in person. Most in-person CART providers will have a two-hour minimum.
Remote CART often has a one-hour minimum. LEMP's A/V costs are listed on
LEMP’s special
events page. Questions should be directed to your home department or unit, SCPS, or LEMP,
depending upon the venue.
ASL/CART Flow Diagram (Is ASL interpretation and/or CART needed for your event?):
https://answers.syr.edu/pages/viewpage.action?pageId=45878818
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
Notes:
--Some ASL interpreting and CART agencies have higher fees after regular business hours.
--Performance interpreting is more complicated and thus more expensive than standard interpreting.
--Some ASL interpreters and CART providers may charge for transportation.
--Provide parking information for CART providers (if on-site) and ASL interpreters, in all cases. Work
with Parking Services to identify parking (typically free for ASL interpreters and CART providers working
at university events).
--When budgeting for events, keep in mind that some interpreting agencies may charge travel time at a
rate that is typically the same as the hourly rate for interpreting itself. Agencies can be asked to provide
estimates, in advance, for interpreters who may be traveling significant distances to be present at your
event. Please note that you are allowed to request of an agency that a Deaf consumer’s preferred
interpreter(s) be assigned to an event. You are allowed, as well, to note that you prefer local
interpreters be assigned via the agency.
--Work with the interpreting agency to make determinations about appropriate lighting for interpreters.
--Talking very loudly to d/Deaf people doesn’t usually help anyone.
--Whenever possible, try to have materials in multiple languages in order to make your event accessible
to individuals who are not native speakers of English. Work with students and participants who have
RSVP'd to your event to determine which languages may need to be included. Ideally, a skilled, native
speaker of a language, who also understands the topics being discussed, should be the one to translate
materials and content.
FILMS, SLIDESHOWS, AND OTHER DIGITAL MATERIALS
Films and Videos
Contact and ask the filmmakers/video creators if there is a captioned version. If there is not,
encourage (or even urge) the filmmakers/video creators to make one. It is not an individual
event organizer’s’ responsibility to caption a film, and doing so is not always possible, after-the-
fact. However, under certain circumstances, you may need to find a way to arrange for
captioning.
Visually image-rich films are not accessible to the Blind and others with visual impairments
without the presence of descriptive audio
, sometimes called audio description.
Caption Advantage, based in Syracuse, offers film and video captioning services. Other
companies also offer these services. A variety of captioning resources can be found via
Information Technology Services. Other information is available in APPENDIX E.
Slideshows and Digital Materials
Provide audio files in addition to PDF and Microsoft Word files; Word files can easily be made
accessible. More information on making accessible PDF and Word files is available in Appendix F
of this document.
The Web Accessibility Initiative has an extensive list of presentation accessibility tips, including
some that pertain to media and technology.
Be sensitive to things that may trigger anxiety or other responses in members of your audience.
Programs should include information addressing potentially emotionally traumatizing
presentations/topics, so that attendees can better use their discretion.
Material (such as outlines, handouts, or printed copies of slides) should also be available in
Braille. Braille should be checked for accuracy, in advance, by a Braille user, whenever possible.
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
Contact the Office of Disability Services
for information about having materials embossed in
Braille.
Not everyone uses Braille; many sighted, Blind, and partially sighted individuals use screen-
readers for various reasons (e.g., the “Read Out Loudfeature on Adobe Reader)
Materials with text, including PowerPoint slides, should be in large printed format with:
o 18 point in Arial or another sans serif font
o Use high contrast colors
o Don’t over-pack your slides
Reminder: Provide an array of formats for all materials in advance, during, and after events,
and in general. Some examples might include (but are not limited to): electronic, screen reader-
accessible PDF and WORD documents, five to ten Braille versions of handouts and other
materials (if you have access to a Braille embosser and individuals trained in creating Brailled
materials), and physical handouts. Having pre-recorded audio of any presentations can also be
useful for participants.
Create screen-reader-friendly and fully accessible PDFs and materials.
o See Appendix F of this document
re: how to create accessible PDFs
Create screen-reader-friendly and fully accessible websites.
o Provide “alt text” descriptions for photographs and other website images
o Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool
o The Web Accessibility Initiative has a guide to creating effective alt-text
Make files available via flash drive and/or online distribution before the event, whenever
possible.
Provide attendees with a WORD file listing unusual or potentially confusing terms (jargon,
names, etc.) so that interpreters, CART transcriptionists, and people with certain disabilities can
better access this information.
Having physical handouts to go along with a presentation can be useful for accessibility; Ben-
Moshe (2010) notes that these "[m]ake the presentation easier to follow for those [who] can’t
follow you live" (slide 21).
LOGISTICAL ISSUES: INTERPERSONAL INTERACTION, LIGHTING AND SOUND, AND FOOD
Be cognizant of individuals' preferences around interpersonal interaction
Consider how people may wish to interact (or not interact with one another). During our “Cripping” the
Comic Con accessible comics convention, we use color communication badges as a way for a person to
display their comfort level around interacting with others. A brief explanation of COLOR
COMMUNICATION BADGES (Excerpted from the 2017 “Cripping” the Comic Con
Accessibility Guide,
Syracuse University):
Three laminated color badges are included in the plastic sleeve attached to your lanyard.
GREEN: "Come Talk to Me!" A person wearing a green badge is actively seeking interaction. They may
have trouble initiating conversations, but it’s okay to come up and start a conversation with them. On
these badges, the circle means OPEN or YES.
YELLOW: "Do I Know You?" A yellow badge means its wearer only wants to interact with people they
recognize. Unless you’ve met this person face-to-face before, don’t start a conversation with them. If
they start interacting with you, you’re welcome to respond. On these badges, the line means NEUTRAL
or IT DEPENDS (!).
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
RED: "Not Right Now." If a person has a red badge showing, they do not want anyone to interact with
them. They may approach others to communicate, in which case it’s okay to respond. On these badges,
the square means CLOSED or NO.
If you would like more information about Color Communication Badges, please visit
https://autisticadvocacy.org/2014/02/color-communication-badges/
An additional way to do this would be to have removable red, yellow, and green semi-adhesive dots or
stickers that attendees could put on their nametags. Similarly, having event organizers wear certain
colors of armbands could prove useful for assisting attendees in identifying them. Tags, stickers, and
armbands ought to include words or letters for all colors ("R" or “red,” etc.), to account for individuals
who have color blindness.
Please note that these approaches to communication must also take into account Blind participants and
others for whom visual access is not present or otherwise not primary. What are some ways that
individuals who cannot access the communication badges might find to express their rights,
preferences, and needs, at your event? Can you provide volunteer “image describers” during your
conference’s “break-out sessions,” as well as encourage presenters to be mindful of the importance of
inclusion for all participants?
Consider individuals' needs and preferences around lighting and sound
Some people, including some but not all Autistic individuals, may have difficulties with the flicker of
fluorescent lights. Similarly, some individuals with low vision may prefer to be in rooms with low
lighting. For sighted, Deaf individuals utilizing sign language interpretation, however, low lighting can
make seeing interpreters difficult, if not impossible. Be cognizant of the lighting options available in
your event space, and provide multiple options, and clear information, whenever possible. If you host a
gaming room with electronic options, put type and Braille signage on the door, and make clear in the
program content and throughout the event that the gaming room may at times have flashing or strobe
lights (and thus may not be suitable for individuals with epilepsy, photosensitivity, etc.).
Loud sounds can also pose difficulties for certain individuals. If loud music and/or a lot of noise and
stimulation are likely going to be part of your event, make sure to locate the source of the music and
other high noise levels (e.g., DJ and speakers) strategically, so that people who are sensitive to loud
noise can make good choices for themselves, with information shared in advance. Provide a quiet or
“low stim” room option for folks, whenever possible, and share information about its availability in
advance of and throughout the event, including in the PR/marketing and program materials.
Consider inclusive food choices and ingredient labeling
Set up gluten-free foods, separately, and label, accordingly (arrange for complete ingredient labeling,
whenever possible); provide portable hand sanitizers; consider scents
, spatial arrangements, the
presence or absence of stimulation, and a spectrum of cultural, psychological, and emotional needs
when arranging events. When ordering food via catering, etc., consider individuals with an array of food
preferences and needs (including Kosher, Halal, vegan, vegetarian).
A GUIDE TO PLANNING INCLUSIVE EVENTS, SEMINARS, AND ACTIVITIES AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
K. Pollack and D. Wiener (Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center) REV. December 2018
Arrangements to make DURING the event
WHEN PRESENTING IN FRONT OF AN AUDIENCE
1. Time your presentation carefully in order to encourage dialogue and respect others’
presentations. Try not to rush through your presentation: rushed presentations make CART
transcription and interpretation difficult. Speak slowly, define terms, and spell out names and/or
terms.
2. Describe images, photographs, and other visual "moments" out loud, in a paced way, using
accessible language. As Ben-Moshe (2010) notes, "When adding non-text elements such as
images, charts, tables and autoshapes, they must be described.… You should describe them in
the notes pane, or else the images will be inaccessible for people using screen readers (and it will
remind you to describe them live when you present)" (slide 18).
3. If producing an art show, screening a movie, or other event that includes any highly visual
components, you may wish to use audiodescription services. Audiodescription is an elaborate
process that is accomplished by trained professionals. Contact the Office of Disability Services for
referrals to audiodescription providers.
4. While it may be common practice for presenters to read their papers, please be aware that lack
of eye contact and/or the inability to see your lips may make your presentation inaccessible to
some. Make attempts to look up throughout your presentation.
5. Try presenting with multiple modalities. Even if your preference is a reading of your work/paper,
it is helpful to support the verbal and/or signed linguistic piece with visual representations of text
(PowerPoint; using a Document Camera - a device that individuals can use to display papers or
other documents up on a screen, and zoom in and out; lecture halls and classrooms usually have
them) in rooms where CART may or may not be available). Be sure to describe visual materials,
verbally, as noted. Be sure that audio materials have visual elements and captions, as noted.
6. Ask people to introduce themselves, by name (and to spell their names), when they
communicate during a meeting or event, etc.
7. When a speaker/presenter repeats the questions asked by the audience, this can provide better
access, including for Deaf and hard of hearing folks, and individuals with different learning
approaches.
8. Adhere to the requirements and guidelines of the
Syracuse University Information and
Communication Technology (ICT) Accessibility Policy, which went into effect on 1/1/18.
9. If you are presenting a study about people, the subject(s) of your study, or other people who are
part of the population you studied, may be in attendance at “your” event (e.g., Autistic people at
an autism-themed conference)! Be mindful of the ways that your own identities may influence
and affect your audience, especially if you are not a member of the group that is being
represented.
a. “Nothing About Us Without Us” remains a powerful and necessary message within the
disability rights movement -- and beyond. Events, activities, curricula, etc. “about”
disability are best organized by disabled people, or, at the very least, with nondisabled
people working in very close and ongoing collaboration with disabled people, who are
there willingly (and not as tokenized representatives).
10. Keep the approaches and purposes of your event in mind.
11. Periodically ask members of the audience if they are comfortable with the pace and volume of
your presentation.
12. Be mindful and inclusive as you negotiate sound and pitch, visual content, pace and pause time,
language usage, etc.
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13. Being spontaneous is fine, but don’t add too much “on-the-spot” to the actual content of your
PowerPoint slides.
14. "Do not speak over your slide until you and your audience have read it" (Ben-Moshe, 2010, slide
15).
15. Provide a clear, inclusive set of options for participants to ask questions or request handouts if
they are unable (or do not wish) to raise their hands to do so. Prof. Brenda Brueggemann, of
Ohio State University, includes hand-raising, finger-wiggling, and meaningful eye contact as some
potential options to suggest to audience members (there is more than one way to make one’s
presence known). Calling out may also be appropriate, in certain situations (for instance, if a
speaker is Blind or has low vision). Refer to details above regarding on-site
Qualtrics survey
options.
Protocol for Presenting Events with Interpreters and/or CART
Presenters or event organizers should be prepared to introduce the ASL interpreter(s) and CART
provider(s), rather than having these professionals introduce themselves. A brief explanation regarding
how to work with interpreters and CART providers should be provided to the audience.
1. People with visual impairments may have difficulty distinguishing that an ASL interpreter is
voicing for multiple people. It is helpful for people to say their names before they speak, for this
among other reasons.
2. When working with ASL interpreters, talk directly to the d/Deaf person (do not ask the ASL
interpreter “tell her…” and so on. (This is also true of working with interpreters who are
interpreting for hearing, non-native English users.)
3. It is a general rule amongst most, but not all, professional ASL interpreters that they do not
engage in the dialogue. As noted, ASL interpreters are not there to participate in the event, but
solely in their roles as professional linguistic interpreters. All interpreters, including ASL
interpreters, are obligated to maintain appropriate ethics and professional boundaries.
4. Additional information regarding working with interpreters is available via the interpreting
agencies listed, below.
EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY OR FILMING
Whenever possible, arrange to photograph, as well as videorecord
, an event. If you have a
transcript of the event, you may be able to use this transcript to assist with captioning your
video. When captioning a long video, you may wish to contract with a company that provides
captioning services. Our resources directory includes a list of providers. Please let us know if
you have any questions.
Also, if possible, some participants may prefer or need to access an event virtually (for example,
via Skype or livestream). You can consult with your home unit or department, and/or with
LEMP and ITS
, regarding making the necessary arrangements.
o Livestreaming must be inclusive, accessible, and available on multiple platforms
(desktop/laptop, mobile devices, etc.)! Captioning and providing descriptive audio,
among other components (like notifying individuals of how to access the livestream), for
an inclusive and accessible, livestreamed event can be coordinated with assistance from
ITS
at Syracuse University.
It is important to keep in mind that, if your event is being photographed or videorecorded, not
everyone will be comfortable being in photographs or video. One way to address this issue is to
let people know that an event is going to be video-recorded/photographed, and to let anyone
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who does not wish to be in images or a video recording that they can sit in a specified part of
the room, which will not be recorded/photographed.
Note: Individuals who attend official S.U. events give implicit consent to be photographed and
videorecorded, but it is still best to provide individuals with options. Please also note when working
with an interpreting agency, it is still considered respectful to make sure that an interpreter is
comfortable being photographed / videorecorded.
Arrangements to make AFTER the event
1. Make files available via flash drive distribution or online after, if not before, the event (refer to
above).
2. As needed, edit the CART script or hire the CART provider or another professional to edit the
transcript so that it may be distributed, as needed. A draft of a CART transcript may have errors
in it and will need editing before it is distributed or posted.
3. Information on making captioned YouTube videos is available in Appendix E of this document
.
4. Another useful online resource for captioning videos, and for having them captioned, is Amara.
OTHER THINGS TO THINK ABOUT
Develop, utilize, and share an inclusive campus resource guide (many exist, already; no need to
“reinvent the wheel”). Please help us to update this guide, in an ongoing, inclusive manner!!
Learn about accessible, inclusive, and emerging technologies in your and your students’ areas of
interest.
Seek out people and organizations with which to network!
Use existing resources and contribute to new ones, on your campus, and in local/regional/global
communities.
If you encounter a concept or topic with which you are unfamiliar, don't be afraid to ask
questions!
You are welcomed (and encouraged) to share this guide, with proper attribution.
REFERENCES
Ben-Moshe, L. (2010). "Not another PowerPoint!": How to become an effective presenter using
universal design. Retrieved from
http://sudcc.syr.edu/resources/index.html
CAST. (2012). UDL at a glance. Retrieved from
http://www.udlcenter.org/resource_libraryvideos/udlcenter/udl
Cornell University. (n. d.) Disability information: Presentation of content. Retrieved from
http://disability.cornell.edu/events/presentation.cfm
Seifert, T. (2007). Understanding Christian privilege: Managing the tensions of spiritual plurality. About
Campus, 12(2), 1017. doi:10.1002/abc.206
Umstead, A. (2012). An introductory guide to disability language and empowerment. Retrieved from
http://sudcc.syr.edu/resources/language-guide.html
(Revised Dec. 2018, P. Penner & D. Wiener)
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University of Arizona Disability Resource Center. (n. d.). A guide to planning accessible and inclusive
events. Retrieved from
https://drc.arizona.edu/planning-events/guide-planning-accessible-and-
inclusive-events
Vera Institute of Justice. (2014, August). Series: Designing accessible events for people with disabilities
and Deaf people: Registration (Tip sheet no. 1). Retrieved from
https://storage.googleapis.com/vera-web-assets/downloads/Publications/designing-accessible-
events-for-people-with-disabilities-and-deaf-individuals/legacy_downloads/registration-
accessible-events-updated.pdf
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APPENDIX A: HELPFUL RESOURCES
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETING SERVICES
Aurora of Central New York
T | 315-422-7263
W | http://www.auroraofcny.org/home/
E | aurorairs@auroraofcny.org
Empire Interpreting Services
T | 315-472-1383
W | http://empireinterpreting.com
E | info@empireinterpreting.com
A/V PROVIDERS ASSOCIATED WITH CART PROVISION
Syracuse Technologies (Ron Mirizio)
5 Lumber Way
Liverpool NY 13090
T | 315-679-5360
T | 315-480-0020
W | http://www.cusetech.com
E | rmirizio@cusetech.com
Visual Technologies Corporation (David Foor)
1620 Burnet Ave
Syracuse, New York 13206
T | 315-423-2000
T | 888-423-0004
F | 315-423-0004
W | https://www.visualtec.com/
E | dfoor@visualtec.com
CART (COMMUNICATION ACCESS REAL-TIME TRANSLATION) PROVIDERS
Alternative Communication Services
T | 800-335-0911
T | 630-456-5124
F | 813-926-7875
W | http://www.acscaptions.com
E | info@acscaptions.com
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Caption Advantage, LLC (Doreen Radin)
T | 315-492-0069 (local)
T | 877-227-2382 (toll-free)
F | 315-492-1426
W | www.CaptionAdvantage.com
E | CaptionAdv@aol.com
Professional Reporting Services (Sally Maiorano)
T | 315-436-7775
Sara Baum
NON-CART TRANSCRIPTION AND OTHER ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES
Automatic Sync Technologies, LLC (CaptionSync)
T | 877-278-7962
W | http://www.automaticsync.com/captionsync/
Matchless Transcription
T | 910-853-4181
W | http://www.matchlesstranscription.com
E | inquiries@matchlesstranscription.com
Word Wizards, Inc.
T | 301-986-0808
F | 301-986-0809
W | http://www.wordwizardsinc.com
E | generalinfo@wordwizardsinc.com
VIDEO PRODUCTION
ENG/Event Shooting
Tad Fundalinski
T | 315-720-2590
E | tadfundalinski@yahoo.com
Kyle Ridlon Productions
Kyle Ridlon
T | 315-857-3323
W | http://www.kyleridlonproductions.com/
E | kyle@kyleridlonproductions.com
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Zero Point Aerial
Todd Torrance
T | 315-516-6406
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
Accessible Syracuse: Syracuse University's Online Disability and Accessibility Portal
W | http://www.syr.edu/accessiblesu/
Beyond Compliance: An Information Package on the Inclusion of People with Disabilities in
Postsecondary Education
W | http://bcccsyracuse.wordpress.com/info-package/
Disability Cultural Center (DCC)
T | 315-443-4486
F | 315-443-0193
W | http://sudcc.syr.edu
E | sudcc@syr.edu
Information Technology and Services (ITS)
T | 315-443-2677
W | https://its.syr.edu/
(HOME)
W | http://itsaccessibility.syr.edu/?_ga=2.73608850.1429502203.1529328784-989726394.1523285688
(TECHNOLOGY ACCESSIBILITY AT SU)
W | https://answers.syr.edu/display/itsservapp011/Accessible+Technology+Toolkit (ACCESSIBLE
TECHNOLOGY TOOLKIT)
E | help@syr.edu
Learning Environments and Media Production (LEMP)
T | 315-443-5660
W | http://lemp.syr.edu/
(HOME)
W | https://answers.syr.edu/display/itslemp/Event+Support+and+Academic+Media+Production (EVENT
SUPPORT AND ACADEMIC MEDIA PRODUCTION)
Office of Disability Services (ODS)
T | 315-443-4498
W | http://disabilityservices.syr.edu/
E | odssched@syr.edu
Office of Equal Opportunity, Inclusion, and Resolution Services (current site of Interim ADA/503/504
Coordinator)
T | 315-443-4018
W | http://inclusion.syr.edu/
E | EqualOpp@syr.edu
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Student Centers and Programming Services (SCPS)
T | 315.443.4240
W | http://scps.syr.edu
Syracuse University Inclusive Event Planning Checklist
https://answers.syr.edu/display/itsservapp011/Common+Resources+for+Accessibility?preview=%2F409
60791%2F47710945%2FSyracuse-University-Event-Planning-Checklist.pdf
HELPFUL LINKS
About Fragrance Sensitivity, Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
https://askjan.org/disabilities/Fragrance-Sensitivity.cfm
Web Accessibility Evaluation Tools List, W3C® Web Accessibility Initiative
http://www.w3.org/WAI/RC/tools/complete
How to be an Ally to Disabled & Neurodiverse Folks in Activist & Academic Communities
https://accessculture.wordpress.com/2012/07/06/how-to-be-an-ally-to-disabled-neurodiverse-folks-in-
activist-academic-communities/
Guidelines for Accessibility, Beyond Compliance Coordinating Committee (BCCC)
http://bcccsyracuse.wordpress.com/accessibility-guidelines/
http://bcccsyracuse.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/bccc_event_guidelines2009.pdf (PDF version)
Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel & Conference Center
https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/syrsi-sheraton-syracuse-university-hotel-and-conference-
center/
The NFB Center of Excellence in Nonvisual Access to Education, Public Information, and Commerce
(CENA), National Federation of the Blind
https://nfb.org/technology-center
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APPENDIX B: EXAMPLE OF AN EVENT/SEMINAR INTRODUCTION
Courtesy of Dr. Diane R. Wiener
Welcome, everyone, to what we hope will be an engaging and meaningful conversation about (topic).
We acknowledge, with respect, the Onondaga Nation, the indigenous people on whose ancestral lands
Syracuse University now stands, sits, and rolls.
This evening’s event is co-sponsored by (event sponsors).
Thanks to (key, involved parties) for their excellent work in making this event possible.
Thanks to {partners and co-sponsors), for their support of this event.
Thanks to (name of agency) for providing ASL interpretation. Our interpreters this evening are (names of
interpreters), and to (name of CART provider), for providing Communication Access Real-time Translation
(CART).
(As appropriate): We are using remote technology to make CART possible, this evening, and ask that
everyone be mindful of the use of computers and/or A/V equipment to assist (CART provider) with the
remote real-time translation process.
By participating at a Syracuse University-sponsored event, you have given implicit consent to be
photographed and videorecorded. However, if you wish not to be photographed or videorecorded,
please be seated to (note section designated don’t just “point,” but describe location).
I wanted to spend a few moments discussing interpretation for those of you who may be unfamiliar with
working with sign language interpreters.
It is customary not to address interpreters or to ask them questions, as they are not participating in the
event, but are here only in their roles as skilled and expert linguistic interpreters.
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Please feel free to direct any questions regarding ASL interpretation and CART to me (event organizer or
facilitator), after the event. Depending upon (names of interpreters) availability and professional
preferences, they too may be available, *after* the event has concluded, to answer any questions that
you may have about ASL interpretation.
(As appropriate): Electronic copies of today’s materials are available by contacting (event organizer).
If you have any other questions or requests, please feel free to communicate directly with (event
organizer), after the event has concluded.
Thanks, again, for joining us, and (if applicable) please enjoy the refreshments! Lets start with a “round
robin,” by way of introduction… (if applicable)
Sources for Appendix B: BCCC's Guidelines for Accessibility
and Dr. Diane R. Wiener.
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APPENDIX C: OTHER USEFUL ACCESSIBILITY GUIDES AND RESOURCES
Accessibility Syracuse, resources from Professor Jay Dolmage, author of Academic Ableism
https://accessibilitysyracuse.wordpress.com/
Adobe Systems Incorporated. (2017). Accessibility training resources. Retrieved from
http://www.adobe.com/accessibility/products/acrobat/training.html
Beyond Compliance Coordinating Committee. (2009). Guidelines for accessibility. Retrieved from
http://bcccsyracuse.wordpress.com/accessibility-guidelines/
Cornell University. (n.d.). Accessibility information: Event planning. Retrieved from
http://www.cornell.edu/disability/events/
Cornell University Student Disability Services. (n.d.) Check list for planning accessible events. Retrieved
from http://www.cornell.edu/disability/docs/accessibility-checklist.pdf
New York State Department of Health. (2008, October). People first: How to plan events everyone can
attend. Retrieved from http://www.health.ny.gov/publications/0956/
University of Arizona Disability Resource Center. A guide to planning accessible and inclusive events.
Retrieved from
https://drc.arizona.edu/planning-events/guide-planning-accessible-and-
inclusive-events
Vidali, A. (n.d.). Access. In Disability rhetoric. Retrieved April 15, 2013, from
http://disabilityrhetoric.wordpress.com/access/
Some sources from Vidali (n.d.):
Accessible Conference Presentations
Creating Accessible Presentations
Universal Design: Creating Presentations that Speak to All (American Sociological Association)
American Public Health Association (APHA): Accessibility
Access Guidelines for MLA Convention Session Organizers and Presenters (Modern Language
Association)
How to Make Your Presentations Accessible to All (W3C® Web Accessibility Initiative)
Universal Design
Universal Design for Education: Selected Bibliography (by Jay Dolmage)
Universal Design: Process, Principles, and Applications (DO-IT: Disabilities, Opportunities,
Internetworking, and Technology)
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APPENDIX D: UNIVERSAL DESIGN GUIDE AND RESOURCES
© 2012 Wendy S. Harbour and the Lawrence B. Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education
Universal Design Guide
Principle 1: Flexible, multiple ways of representing information
Provide multiple examples
Highlight critical information or features
Provide multiple media or formats for information, including computers, graphic organizers,
manipulatives, PowerPoints, etc.
Support students’ understanding of background context
Allow students to “re-interpret” information for themselves with mind maps, graphic organizers,
hypothetical scenarios, labs, etc.
Principle 2: Flexible, multiple ways for students’ actions and expressions of what they know
Provide flexible ways for students to demonstrate what they have learned
Explicitly teach strategies for using or understanding information
Provide modeling, time to practice with supports, and/or scaffolding
Consider having tiered lesson plans
Would “accommodations” for students with disabilities support all students’ learning?
Provide ongoing, relevant feedback
Principle 3: Flexible, multiple ways to engage students’ interest and motivation
Allow student choice whenever possible, including choices about content, resources, or tools they
will use
Offer different, adjustable levels of challenge (tiered lessons)
Offer choices of rewards
Offer choices of learning context when possible
Support self-monitoring and student reflection
Traditional Teaching Method
Examples of UDL Applications
Lecture with PowerPoint slides
Share PowerPoint slides with all students, as notes
Use YouTube videos, websites, clip art or other
media during lecture
Provide a list of websites or resources for students
who want to learn more about any topic
Provide a worksheet or a list of key ideas (e.g.,
study sheet) for each lecture
Labs
Let students pick their lab partners
Allow larger groups instead of pairs for some
experiments
Create videos to show complicated steps in
experiments
Have students report their findings on posters or
through oral presentations
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Traditional Teaching Method
Examples of UDL Applications
Research papers
Offer choice of paper or projects
Let students choose topics
Provide handouts or links to websites with tips for
doing APA style, citing sources, etc.
Offer students choices about multiple small papers
or one long paper
Oral presentations
Give students a choice of oral or written
presentation
Show models of excellent oral presentations
Allow students to create a PowerPoint or website
that “speaks for them
Give students a chance to practice or plan
presentations in small groups with classmates
Reading assignments
Offer the readings in PDF format
Allow students to choose among several readings
or two textbooks on the same topic
Ask students to find the course readings on a topic,
using checklists to help them fine “quality” readings
Have students critique readings regularly in lieu of
reflection papers or quizzes, to provide feedback
for choosing readings and evaluating what they
know
Multiple-choice tests
Vary the types of questions to include true/false,
matching, short answer, etc.
Do not require bubble sheets; allow students to
circle the answer on the test if it would help them
Allow students to choose which questions they will
answer (e.g., select “5 out of 10 questions in Part A
and “10 out of 15 questions in Part B”)
Ask students to design questions for the exam, or
to create a “cheat sheet” to help the instructor
design the exam
Quizzes
Allow students to take quizzes in groups of 2-4
Let students choose which questions to answer
(e.g., “pick 10 out of 12”)
Use a variety of questions: true/false, multiple
choice, short answer
Discussion groups
Ask students to bring a list of questions or key
points for discussion, to be sure everyone is
prepared and has a chance to say something
Assign roles, so everyone can participate in
different ways
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Traditional Teaching Method
Examples of UDL Applications
Give discussion groups concrete tasks to
accomplish during their discussion
Vary the size, seating, or composition of discussion
groups
Journals or reflection papers
Set up blogs or chats online instead of journals or
papers
Allow drawings, poetry, photos, mind maps, or
other alternatives to entries in paragraph form
Ask students to grade each others’ reflections
Allow entries that are typed or handwritten
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APPENDIX E: VIDEO CAPTIONING AND AUDIO DESCRIPTION RESOURCES
Captioning Tools:
Syracuse University’s ITS Answers page has a University-approved and comprehensive guide with many
video captioning resources. The page explains how to create a variety of captioned media.
https://answers.syr.edu/display/itsservapp011/Video+Captioning+Resources
ITS also provides a Video Captioning Decision Tree Diagram (with text-only version available on the same
page), which can help you understand when it is required to use video captioning for materials at
Syracuse University: https://answers.syr.edu/pages/viewpage.action?pageId=45089315
Captioning YouTube Videos:
While YouTube has an automated captions feature, it is frequently inaccurate and inaccessible. In order
for YouTube videos to be accessible, it is necessary to create your own captions. There are a few
resources available on how to do this (here is a sample):
Add Your Own Subtitles & Closed Captions from YouTube’s website:
https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/2734796?hl=en
Free Tools for Captioning YouTube Videos from Terrill Thompson, University of Washington:
http://terrillthompson.com/blog/15
Do-It-Yourself Video Captioning Techniques for YouTube, iTunes, PowerPoint, and more:
https://carmenwiki.osu.edu/display/10292/DIY+Captioning+Techniques#DIYCaptioningTechniqu
es-Quick-StartsforYouTubeandiTunesUUsers
How to Add Closed Captions & Subtitles to Facebook Videos:
http://info.3playmedia.com/rs/744-UDO-697/images/Facebook-Guide.pdf
YouDescribe (YD): Audio Description for YouTube videos: https://youdescribe.org/
Captioning for PowerPoint: https://translator.microsoft.com/help/presentation-translator/
Skype will soon have a captioning option that can be used during Skype calls.
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APPENDIX F: CREATING ACCESSIBLE CONTENT
Syracuse University ITS Answers Page has many resources for creating accessible documents.
For further information on the resources listed below, please check the webpage linked here:
https://answers.syr.edu/display/itsservapp011/Create+Accessible+Content
Creating Accessible Microsoft Word 2016 Documents (Windows)
http://ncdae.org/resources/cheatsheets/word2016.php
Creating Accessible Spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel 2010/13 (Windows) & 2011 (Mac)
http://ncdae.org/resources/cheatsheets/excel.php
Creating Accessible Microsoft PowerPoint 2013 Presentations (Windows)
http://ncdae.org/resources/cheatsheets/powerpoint2013.php
Acrobat DC: Creating Accessible PDFs (2015) captioned video
https://www.lynda.com/Acrobat-tutorials/Creating-Accessible-PDFs-Acrobat-DC/372675-
2.html
Web Accessibility Tutorials Guidance on how to create websites that meet WCAG
https://www.w3.org/WAI/tutorials/
WebAIM Accessible Images
https://webaim.org/techniques/images/