Creating Accessible Microsoft Word Documents

As part of the BEST Grant’s goals to support the implementation of braille instruction and braille technology, BEST is offering a professional development workshop focused on creating accessible Word documents. The introductory training will focus on creating an accessible source file. Accessible source files are better for transcribers to work with to create .brf files or hard copy braille and are also compatible with assistive technologies, supporting digital access for students who are visually impaired.

Please note this session will focus solely on Microsoft Word. Some of the same features can be applied in Google Docs, but those specific tools will not be covered in this training.

Dates/Times

October 10th, 2023 from 9:00am - 11:30am

Description

This training was developed to assist those who support students who are visually impaired by providing an introductory level of understanding of digital material accessibility. This is an online, hands-on in-service for paraprofessionals, general educators, and other school staff.

Location

Online

Audience

  • Teachers and paraprofessionals working with students who are potential or current braille users
  • Staff of Boards of Developmental Disabilities working with students who are potential or current braille users
  • Other school staff working with students who are potential or current braille users
  • Transcribers or accessible materials productionists

Objectives

Participants will:

  • Apply accessibility features and tools within Word to a practice document to create an accessible source file
  • Identify common accessibility errors within Word documents and know how to remediate those errors
  • Explain the importance of creating accessible content as it realates to accessibility standards and user experience.

Agenda

  • Document Properties
  • Formatting for Text and Images
  • Alternative Text
  • Utilizing Styles for Document Structure
  • Tables
  • Finalizing the Document
  • Converting to PDF

Needed for participation

Many attendees may have access to Word on their personal or district provided computers. If you do have access to Word on your own device, we are asking that you use that device for this training. However, we do have a limited number of laptops available for those who do not have access. If you would like to take the training but will need a laptop provided for you, or if you have questions about versions of Word or system compatibility for the training, please contact Augusta Fisher at augusta_fisher@ocali.org. 

Please note that BEST laptop computers can only be sent to participants within the state of Ohio. 

Contact Hours

Two and one-half (2.5) contact hours will be offered for participation.

Instructor

Rachel Schultz, AEM Specialist for the AT&AEM Center

Registration

  • This workshop is limited to 40 participants
  • Deadline for Registration: October 9th, 2023
  • Deadline for reigistration in order to receive a laptop provided one is available: October 2nd, 2023.

Register online via OCALI Pass

Do you need accommodations? Please fill out the Accommodations Request form at least one week prior to the scheduled training to ensure we are able to fulfill your request adequately. We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully!

For more information contact Augusta Fisher at augusta_fisher@ocali.org.