The way in which language is used has the potential to erase barriers if used with intention and accessibility in mind. Plain language, direct and concise communication that can be understood easily, should always be utilized to ensure the audience’s understanding of the given topic. Plain language focuses on replacing jargon with everyday language, accessible structuring, and audience comprehension. When using plain language it is important to keep these guiding questions in mind: who is the audience and what background do they have on this topic? What do they need to know? What should they take away?
Adapted from Plainlanguage.gov. (n.d.) What is Plain Language? https://www.plainlanguage.gov/about/definitions/
Additional Resources:
If the event being held involves a significant amount of verbal information, for example, lectures or presentations, it is necessary to plan for those who are blind or have low vision as well as deaf individuals. All events should have live captioning and support an ASL interpreter if requested. It is also important to describe audio-visual media, such as graphics, so they are accessible to everyone attending. Another great accessibility decision is to provide ample wait time after posing a question or talking about a complex topic.
When planning an in-person event, it is important to consider accessibility from the start by using Universal Design (refer to home page). Some of these considerations include, but are not limited to, accessible entrances, exits, restrooms, and parking, lighting, dietary restrictions, and access to ASL interpreters. The resources below provide considerations to keep in mind when planning your event.
Campus Events Accessibility Checklist: Guide for Butler-specific events
Event Planning Accessibility Guidelines: Best practices for physical accessibility
Inclusive Event Planning: Guide for planning events with neurodiversity in mind
Creating and Hosting Accessible Events: A how-to in accessible event planning, from start to finish
Butler Accessibility Map: Interactive map of accessibility features on Butler's campus
Many events involve working with outside vendors or other outside entities, for example food trucks or 3rd party speakers, that may be unfamiliar with accessibility best practices or Butler’s accessibility policies. The same accessibility expectations held while creating your event must apply to all 3rd party entities in order to comply with Butler policy and foster accessible environments. Before the day of the event, ensure to thoroughly research the selected outside entity’s statement on accessibility and have a discussion about accessibility expectations for the event. If accessibility concerns arise during the event, make sure to address the issue as quickly as possible. One of the best ways to do so is by having open, respectful conversations that address what the issue is, how it can be fixed, and why it is important that the accessibility issue gets resolved. If there is an accessibility clause within the contract made with the 3rd party, it may also be a good idea to reference it during the conversation.
The decisions made with font size and style are critical to ensuring digital events are accessible. When looking for an accessible font it is important to know what the font will be used for (e.g. title, heading, or body) and adjust the size accordingly. Typically, having a title between 72-158 point, section headings between 42-56 point, body text between 24-36 point, and captions between 18-24 point is suggested. In addition, the font’s legibility, readability, differentiation between the shapes of different letters, space between letters, and stylization must be considered. Some of the most commonly used accessible fonts include Tahoma, Calabri, Times New Roman, Helvetica, Arial, Arvo, and Rockwell.
Additional Resources:
When creating a conference or research poster, many of the same accessibility features apply. During the design process of the poster the font style and size, color scheme, organizational layout, language use, and captioning should all be taken into consideration. The Designing A Research Poster libguide outlines some of these accessibility features and provides examples to help with the design process. When giving the oral presentation, ensure to speak in a loud, clear voice and describe any audio-visual media. Depending on the nature of your presentation, it may also be helpful to have physical handouts or a QR code on your poster. If any digital media is used, ensure that those resources are fully accessible as well.
Library Hours
Study Rooms
My Library Account
Library Website
